[Effect of differentiation on expression of genes for growth factors and growth factor receptors in human corneal endothelial cells].
In earlier publications we described a method for the isolation and long-term cultivation of human corneal endothelial cells. In several cultures we observed dedifferentiation of these cells, shown by loss of their normal polygonal shape and assumption of a fibroblastlike morphology. To reveal the role of growth factors for this dedifferentiation we analyzed the expression of genes encoding growth factors and growth factor receptors by differentiated and dedifferentiated human corneal endothelial cells. By means of northern blot analysis we demonstrated expression of the genes encoding basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), transforming growth factor beta (TGF beta 1), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), FGF receptor-1 (flg-type) and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF receptor) by both differentiated and dedifferentiated human corneal endothelial cells. In addition, expression of VEGF was stimulated by supplementation of growth medium by bFGF. In contrast, expression of the gene encoding flt-1, a receptor for VEGF, was only observed in dedifferentiated and not in differentiated human corneal endothelial cells. Despite this expression of flt-1, the dedifferentiated cells showed no mitogenic response to VEGF. The role of growth factors for dedifferentiation of human corneal endothelial cells is discussed.
Bednarz
J
J
Universitäts-Augenklinik Hamburg.
Weich
H A
HA
Rodokanaki-von Schrenck
A
A
Engelmann
K
K
D015152:Blotting, Northern; D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000235:genetics*; D002478:Cells, Cultured; D004728:Endothelium, Corneal / Q000166:cytology*; D000091344:Filaggrin Proteins; D015870:Gene Expression / Q000502:physiology; D006133:Growth Substances / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D017978:Receptors, Growth Factor / Q000235:genetics*
C000717249:FLG protein, human; D000091344:Filaggrin Proteins; D006133:Growth Substances; D017978:Receptors, Growth Factor
Einfluss der Differenzierung auf die Expression von Genen für Wachstumsfaktoren und Wachstumsfaktorrezeptoren in humanen kornealen Endothelzellen.