Adhesion molecule expression in bullous keratopathy.
BACKGROUND
Adhesion molecules may play an important role in the pathogenesis of bullous keratopathy.


METHODS
The expression of the integrin VLA-beta 1, alpha-subunits of the beta 2-integrins LFA-1, Mac-1, and p150,95, the members of the immunoglobulin family ICAM-1 and VCAM-1, and the selectin ELAM-1 on corneas with bullous keratopathy (BK) secondary to intraocular surgery was studied immunohistochemically using an APAAP method.


RESULTS
In the corneas with BK (in contrast to normal corneas), a downregulation of VLA-beta 1 was observed throughout the corneal tissues, particularly on the epithelial layer where bullae occurred; ICAM-1 was induced on epithelial membranes in both BK and inflamed corneas; and the expression of beta 2-integrins, VCAM-1 and ELAM-1 was upregulated in some specimens with remaining endothelial cells.


CONCLUSIONS
The results show that the investigated adhesion molecules may participate in the pathogenesis of BK. The decrease in VLA-beta 1 in patients with BK may be an important factor in the occurrence and development of recurrent bullae; the induced ICAM-1 may recruit beta 2-integrin-positive leukocytes into the epithelial layer, thus aggravating epithelial damage; and beta 2-integrins and VCAM-1 may play a role in endothelial injury and decompensation.
Zhu
S N
SN
Klinik für Ophthalmologic, Christian-Albrechts-Universität, Kiel, Germany.
Nölle
B
B
Duncker
G
G
D000368:Aged; D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D002387:Cataract Extraction / Q000009:adverse effects; D015815:Cell Adhesion Molecules / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D003315:Cornea / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000473:pathology; D003316:Corneal Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000473:pathology; D015536:Down-Regulation; D006801:Humans; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D007910:Lenses, Intraocular; D008875:Middle Aged; D011183:Postoperative Complications
D000911:Antibodies, Monoclonal; D015815:Cell Adhesion Molecules