Abstract
We studied the localization and distribution of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) in corneal scar tissue and membranes using in situ hybridization in 8 corneas from keratoplasty and 4 normal corneas. Identification of the cells was done with immunohistochemistry for SM-alpha-actin, vimentin, and Lu5. CTGF mRNA was found in activated corneal fibroblasts in 7 of 8 scars, 7 of 8 retrocorneal membranes and 2 subepithelial membranes, whereas the control corneas showed no CTGF mRNA expression. Vimentin was positive in all scars, retrocorneal and subepithelial membranes, SM-alpha-actin in 7 of 8 scars and 6 of 8 retrocorneal membranes. These results suggest that CTGF plays a crucial role in corneal wound healing and membrane formation.
Copyright 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel
Publication types
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Comparative Study
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Actins / metabolism
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Biomarkers
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Carrier Proteins / genetics
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Carrier Proteins / metabolism*
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Cicatrix / etiology
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Cicatrix / metabolism*
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Cicatrix / pathology
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Connective Tissue Growth Factor
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Cornea / metabolism*
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Cornea / pathology
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Cornea / surgery
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Corneal Diseases / etiology
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Corneal Diseases / metabolism*
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Corneal Diseases / pathology
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Corneal Injuries
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Eye Injuries, Penetrating / complications
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Eye Injuries, Penetrating / metabolism*
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Eye Injuries, Penetrating / pathology
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Growth Substances / genetics
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Growth Substances / metabolism*
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Humans
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Immediate-Early Proteins / genetics
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Immediate-Early Proteins / metabolism*
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In Situ Hybridization
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Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins*
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Keratoplasty, Penetrating
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Prognosis
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RNA, Messenger / genetics
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RNA, Messenger / metabolism
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Vimentin / metabolism
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Wound Healing / physiology
Substances
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Actins
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Biomarkers
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CCN2 protein, human
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Carrier Proteins
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Growth Substances
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Immediate-Early Proteins
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Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins
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RNA, Messenger
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Vimentin
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Connective Tissue Growth Factor