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Macrophages in human epiretinal and vitreal membranes in patients with proliferative intraocular disorders
1Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, Sun Yat-sen University of Medical Sciences, Guangzhou, China.
Purpose:
Macrophages are versatile cells and have been known as a cellular component of epiretinal membranes of proliferative intraocular disorders (PID). However, the origin and functions of these cells in the membranes are not yet clear. In the present study we investigated the characterization of macrophages/monocytes in various types of human epiretinal membranes from patients with proliferative vitreortinopathy (PVR), proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and ocular perforating injury by means of immunohistochemical techniques.
Methods:
A total of 49 epiretinal membranes of PID in which 24 were PDR specimens, 17 were PVR and 8 were proliferations after perforating eye injury were studied. Monoclonal antibodies against human macrophages, monocytes, HLA-DR antigen and interleukin-1 (IL-1) were used. The alkaline phosphatase anti-alkaline phosphatase (APAAP) technique was performed.
Results:
The results showed that 19 out of 24 PDR specimens (79%), 15 out of 17 PVR specimens (88%) and 7 out of 8 traumatic specimens (87%) contained macrophages, HLA-DR antigen was detected in 20 out of the 24 PDR membranes (83%), 14 out of 17 PVR membranes (82%) and 5 out of 8 traumatic membranes (63%); monocytes were only detected in 10 out of the 24 PDR specimens (41%). In addition, in a group of PDR specimens, interleukin-1 (IL-1) was detected in 8 out of 13 tested specimens (62%).
Conclusion:
The results revealed that the macrophages in the membranes were in an active stage and may play a significant role in the development of proliferative intraocular disorders through either inducing inflammatory reactions or immune responses, or the effects of their cytokines.
Insights
Macrophages are active in epiretinal membranes, potentially driving proliferative intraocular disorders through inflammation and cytokines. This study characterizes these cells in various eye conditions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Macrophages are key cellular components of epiretinal membranes in proliferative intraocular disorders (PID).
- The precise origin and function of these macrophages within the membranes remain unclear.
- Understanding these cells is crucial for elucidating PID pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize macrophages and monocytes in epiretinal membranes from patients with proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), and ocular perforating injury.
- To investigate the presence of HLA-DR antigen and interleukin-1 (IL-1) in these membranes.
- To elucidate the role of macrophages in the development of PID.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical techniques were employed on 49 epiretinal membrane specimens (24 PDR, 17 PVR, 8 traumatic).
- Monoclonal antibodies targeting human macrophages, monocytes, HLA-DR antigen, and IL-1 were utilized.
- The alkaline phosphatase anti-alkaline phosphatase (APAAP) staining method was performed.
Main Results:
- Macrophages were prevalent in PDR (79%), PVR (88%), and traumatic (87%) membranes.
- HLA-DR antigen was detected in a high percentage of PDR (83%) and PVR (82%) membranes.
- Monocytes were found in 41% of PDR specimens, and IL-1 was detected in 62% of tested PDR specimens.
Conclusions:
- Macrophages in epiretinal membranes are in an active state.
- These active macrophages likely contribute significantly to the development of PID.
- Their role may involve inducing inflammatory or immune responses, or through the action of their cytokines.