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Expression of adhesion molecule CD44 on human corneas
The British Journal of Ophthalmology
|January 1, 1997
Summary
CD44, a molecule involved in cell interactions, is expressed on normal corneal cells. Its expression changes in various corneal diseases, particularly during inflammation and injury, suggesting a role in corneal healing.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The molecule CD44 (hyaluronate receptor) is crucial for cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions.
- Understanding CD44 distribution in the human cornea is vital for comprehending corneal physiology and pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression and distribution of CD44 in normal and diseased human corneas.
- To determine the role of CD44 in corneal inflammatory and pathological conditions.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical staining of corneal buttons from 58 patients with various corneal diseases and 4 normal controls.
- Utilized monoclonal antibodies against human CD44 and the APAAP method for staining.
- Observed stained sections under a light microscope.
Main Results:
- In normal corneas, CD44 was primarily found on basal epithelial cells, keratocytes, and limbal vascular endothelial cells.
- CD44 expression was significantly enhanced on the corneal epithelium during inflammation and allograft rejection.
- Positive CD44 staining was observed on remaining endothelial cells in conditions like allograft rejection and endothelial decompensation, but not in all cases of keratitis, keratoconus, or dystrophy.
Conclusions:
- CD44 plays a significant role in corneal cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions.
- CD44 regulation is closely linked to corneal inflammatory responses.
- Upregulation of CD44 on corneal endothelium may indicate a compensatory mechanism following injury.
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