Presence of basic fibroblast growth factor in corneal epithelium

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) has strong angiogenic properties and also promotes wound healing of corneal epithelium. However, only little is known about the natural presence of bFGF at the ocular surface. In the present study we therefore investigated the presence of bFGF in the corneas of 10 guinea pigs. Positive staining for bFGF was found in the epithelium of all specimens, preferentially in the basal cell layer where the staining was entirely intracytoplasmatical. From base to apex a condensation process was detectable with highest intensity granular staining in the cytoplasm of the apical cells and a dense layer of pFGF at the surface of the epithelium without detectable cell structures. There was no specific staining in the stroma or endothelium. The possible role of pFGF in corneal physiology and neovascularization is discussed.