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Expression of basic fibroblast growth factor mRNA in developing choroidal neovascularization
N Ogata1, M Matsushima, Y Takada
1Department of Ophthalmology, Kansai Medical University, Osaka, Japan.
Current Eye Research
|October 1, 1996
Summary
Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is transcribed in rat retinas. Its mRNA expression increases during laser-induced choroidal neovascularization, suggesting bFGF mediates this process.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Molecular Biology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is an angiogenic peptide implicated in choroidal neovascularization pathogenesis.
- Understanding bFGF gene transcription is crucial for investigating neovascularization development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the transcription of the bFGF gene during experimentally induced choroidal neovascularization in rats.
Main Methods:
- Rat bFGF cDNA was used to create riboprobes for in situ hybridization.
- Subretinal neovascularization was induced in pigmented rats using krypton laser burns.
- Eyes were analyzed histopathologically and via in situ hybridization at various time points post-photocoagulation.
Main Results:
- Normal rat retinas showed bFGF mRNA in ganglion and inner nuclear layers.
- Following laser treatment, bFGF mRNA expression was detected in neovascular lesions from 3 days to 2 weeks.
- Proliferating RPE cells, choroidal vascular endothelial cells, and fibroblast-like cells within lesions expressed bFGF mRNA.
Conclusions:
- bFGF is normally transcribed in specific retinal cell layers.
- bFGF mRNA expression is upregulated in laser-induced neovascular lesions.
- These findings suggest bFGF plays a mediating role in choroidal neovascularization.