Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose:To report changes in cell proliferation and temporal expression of cell surface markers and adhesion molecules on human choroidal endothelial cells when cultured under normo and hyperglycaemic conditions.Methods:Human choroidal endothelial cells were cultured in medium containing glucose at concentrations of 5 and 25mmol/l in 96 well culture plates. Cell proliferation was measured using WST–1 at 1, 3 and 7 days. Cells were also cultured on gelatin coated coverslips and subjected to indirect immunohistochemistry at 1, 3 and 7 days. The cell surface expression of PECAM 1 (CD31), CD34, E–Selectin, ICAM 1 and VCAM was examined by Confocal fluorescence microscopy.Results: Exposure of choroidal endothelial cells to short term hyperglycaemia did not affect proliferation, however more prolonged exposure to hyperglycaemia led to a reduced proliferation rate. Long term culture of cells under both normo and hyperglycaemic conditions appeared to lead to a reduction in expression of CD31, CD34, VCAM, and E–Selectin. The expression of ICAM 1 was preserved under hyperglycaemic conditions. Conclusions:Hyperglycaemic conditions appears to suppress the proliferation of human choroidal endothelial cells. This may be of relevance for diabetic choroidopathy and diseases leading to choroidal neovascularisation in diabetics. The alteration of ICAM 1 expression under hyperglycaemic conditions may have an effect on choroidal leucocyte trafficking in diabetics.
Keywords: cell adhesions/cell junctions • choroid • diabetes