Abstract
PURPOSE: To determine whether transforming growth factor-beta 2 (TGF-beta 2) in human aqueous humor inhibits the proliferation of lens epithelial cells. METHODS: Bovine lens epithelial cells (BLECs) obtained from the central zone of the anterior capsule were cultured in complete medium (F-12 nutrient mixture supplemented with 5% fetal bovine serum). Human aqueous humor was obtained from 11 patients during cataract surgery. Medium was removed and replaced with medium containing various concentrations of porcine platelet-derived TGF-beta 2 or 10% human aqueous humor, with or without anti-TGF-beta 2 neutralizing antibody. The number of cells was counted at 96 hours. RESULTS: Porcine platelet-derived TGF-beta 2 inhibited BLEC proliferation in a dose-dependent manner. Anti-TGF-beta 2 antibody blocked the inhibitory effect of TGF-beta 2 on BLEC proliferation. The 10% human aqueous humor stimulated the proliferation of BLECs. Addition of anti-TGF-beta 2 antibody to the 10% human aqueous humor significantly enhanced this stimulatory effect on BLEC proliferation. CONCLUSIONS: TGF-beta 2 in human aqueous humor inhibits the proliferation of lens epithelial cells in vitro.