Abstract
Purpose: :
We examined the gene expression of aquaporin (AQP), a water channel protein, and of the ion channel proteins Kir 7.1, Kir 2.1, and Na+/K+ ATPase, in human and porcine trabecular meshwork (TM) cells.
Methods: :
TM cells were obtained from a porcine eye, while human TM cells were obtained from a patient with primary open angle glaucoma during a trabeculectomy. The cells were cultured in F12/DME medium with 5% fetal bovine serum added and used at the second to third passage. Total RNA was extracted and reverse transcribed into cDNA. A reverse–transcribed polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) method was performed to detect the gene expression of AQP–1 through AQP–9, Kir 7.1, Kir 2.1, and Na+/K+ ATPase using specific primers for the cDNA sequences.
Results: :
Among the molecules examined, the gene expression of AQP–1, AQP–2, AQP–3, AQP–4, AQP–5, Kir 7.1, Kir 2.1, and Na+/K+ ATPase was detectable, while the others showed only faint evidence following amplification by RT–PCR.
Conclusions: :
We considered that these molecules may play important roles in the regulatory system for intraocular pressure by controlling aqueous outflow and ion transport.
Keywords: trabecular meshwork • aqueous • gene/expression