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Keratan sulphate in the trabecular meshwork and cornea
Y Davies1, N J Fullwood, B Marcyniuk
1Institute of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Lancaster University, UK.
Current Eye Research
|July 1, 1997
Summary
Keratan sulphate is more widespread in the human eye than previously thought, found in aqueous humor and on cell surfaces. This suggests a role in cell adhesion and migration.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biochemistry
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Keratan sulphate is a glycosaminoglycan crucial for corneal structure and function.
- Its precise distribution within the human anterior chamber and its role in ocular diseases remain incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution of keratan sulphate in the human anterior chamber.
- To examine keratan sulphate presence in normal eyes and corneas affected by Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy and macular dystrophy.
Main Methods:
- Immuno-electron microscopy utilizing the monoclonal antibody 5-D-4.
- Analysis of 16 normal eyes, 7 Fuchs' dystrophy corneas, and 1 macular dystrophy cornea.
Main Results:
- Keratan sulphate was detected in normal aqueous humor and on trabecular cell surfaces.
- Corneal stroma showed increased keratan sulphate from anterior to posterior, with significant labeling on Descemet's membrane.
- Endothelial cells showed variable keratan sulphate labeling; it was absent in macular dystrophy cornea but present in Fuchs' dystrophy corneas.
- Fuchs' endothelial cells were abnormal, exhibiting filopodia and signs of migration.
Conclusions:
- Keratan sulphate has a broader distribution in the human anterior chamber than previously recognized.
- The presence of keratan sulphate on trabecular and endothelial cell surfaces suggests potential roles in cell adhesion and migration.
- Findings may offer insights into the pathogenesis of corneal dystrophies.