Expression of CD44 isoforms in cultured human trabecular meshwork cells.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the expression of CD44 isoforms in cultured human trabecular meshwork (HTM) and to discuss their possible relationship with outflow facility.


METHODS
CD44 isoform expression in cultured HTM was qualitatively examined using immunohistochemistry and RT-PCR analysis.


RESULTS
Immunohistochemistry of cultured HTM showed intense staining with a CD44s antibody, and with antibodies against CD44 exon 7, exon 11-12 and exon 14. By RT-PCR, at least three isoforms of CD44 were expressed in HTM: CD44s, CD44v-III and CD44v-I.


CONCLUSIONS
At least three isoforms of CD44 are expressed in the HTM. CD44 may play a role in binding and turnover of hyaluronic acid in the trabecular meshwork, thereby regulating outflow facility.
Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine 94143-0730, USA.
M D
MD
Jumper
R
R
Stern
G M
GM
Lui
B
B
Formby
D M
DM
Schwartz
D002478:Cells, Cultured; D017931:DNA Primers / Q000737:chemistry; D005091:Exons; D006801:Humans; D018960:Hyaluronan Receptors / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*; D007124:Immunoenzyme Techniques; D016133:Polymerase Chain Reaction; D014129:Trabecular Meshwork / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism*; D014158:Transcription, Genetic
D017931:DNA Primers; D018960:Hyaluronan Receptors