[The expression of EGF mRNA and EGF receptors in human trabecular meshwork cells in vitro].
OBJECTIVE
To demonstrate that cultured trabecular meshwork cells can secrete epidermal growth factor (EGF) and there are EGF receptors (EGFRs) on the cells.


METHODS
Human trabecular meshwork cells were cultured in vitro and passaged 3-5 times. Immunohistochemical stain was used to detect EGFRs on the trabecular meshwork cell membrane. EGF cDNA probe, alpha-32P isotope labeling and dot blot hybridization autoradiographic method were used to detect EGF mRNA in the cells.


RESULTS
Cultured human trabecular meshwork cells were obtained. EGFR immunostain was positive, and the reaction of brown color was at the surface of the cells. Dot blot hybridization autoradiography showed that trabecular cells can express EGF mRNA.


CONCLUSIONS
Trabecular meshwork cells can secrete EGF. There are EGFRs on the membrane of trabecular meshwork cells. It is suggested that probably up-regulating the receptors or promoting the cells to secrete growth factors have potential significance in the regeneration of trabecular cells and recovery of the cell functions in open angle glaucoma.
He
X
X
Department of Ophthalmology, First Hospital of Beijing Medical University.
Li
M
M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000737:chemistry; D002478:Cells, Cultured; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004815:Epidermal Growth Factor / Q000096:biosynthesis* / Q000235:genetics; D066246:ErbB Receptors / Q000032:analysis*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D012333:RNA, Messenger / Q000235:genetics; D014129:Trabecular Meshwork / Q000737:chemistry / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism*
D012333:RNA, Messenger; D004815:Epidermal Growth Factor; D066246:ErbB Receptors