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ARPE-19, a human retinal pigment epithelial cell line with differentiated properties
K C Dunn1, A E Aotaki-Keen, F R Putkey
1Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Davis 95616, USA.
Experimental Eye Research
|February 1, 1996
Summary
This study introduces ARPE-19, a new human retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cell line that forms polarized monolayers. ARPE-19 exhibits RPE-specific markers and barrier functions, making it valuable for retinal research.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Cell Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is crucial for photoreceptor health in the vertebrate retina.
- A well-characterized human RPE cell line is needed for in vitro studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and characterize ARPE-19, a novel human RPE cell line.
- To assess its suitability for studying RPE physiology in vitro.
Main Methods:
- ARPE-19 cells were established from primary RPE cultures.
- Biochemical differentiation was assessed via Northern and Western blot analyses for CRALBP and RPE65.
- Polarization and barrier functions were evaluated using Transwell filters, transepithelial resistance (TER) measurements, and 3H-inulin flux assays.
Main Results:
- ARPE-19 cells formed polarized epithelial monolayers with normal karyology.
- Expression of RPE-specific markers CRALBP and RPE65 was confirmed at mRNA and protein levels.
- Monolayers exhibited functional characteristics of RPE, including tight-junction formation and barrier properties (TER up to 50-100 omega cm2).
- Clonal sublines did not surpass the parent cell line's TER and showed senescence, indicating a non-transformed phenotype.
Conclusions:
- The ARPE-19 cell line possesses structural and functional properties similar to native RPE cells.
- This cell line serves as a valuable model for in vitro research on retinal pigment epithelium physiology.