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The cornea is routinely exposed to the environment and is susceptible to damage from mechanical abrasion and infection. Ocular complications associated with diseases or other stresses such as dry eye, changes in blinking, or toxicity may cause decreased corneal sensitivity, epithelial thickness, and defects in barrier function. The epithelial disease may become more pronounced with age and may affect the severity of corneal neuropathy. Persons with these corneal epitheliopathies are seen on a frequent basis for months at a time and the lengthy treatments culminate in loss of jobs or lower job productivity and ultimately large monetary costs to society. In both rats and mice corneas there is a decrease in density of sensory nerve terminals with age that is accompanied by reduced corneal sensitivity and changes in nerve pattern. Our lab has demonstrated that we can perform ex vivo and in vivo live cell imaging experiments to detect calcium mobilization between corneal epithelium for two to three hours. For this proposal the experiments will involve extensive live cell imaging to examine communication between cell layers in various regions of the cornea (basal, wing and apical in central, nasal and limbal) to determine if the age related changes in nerves reported by several groups alter cell communication. Corneas from mice over the age range 2 to 24 months will be examined. Our previous imaging experiments have revealed that the cell-cell communication after injury is required for cell motility. The preliminary data imaging data indicate that there is a decrease in responsiveness with age and that there are subpopulations of cells (conductor cells) after a wound that initiate the signal, and then recruit and promote mobilization between cells. Our preliminary machine learning analyses from in vitro experiments predict that the later long lasting response after an injury recruits cells and is driven by P2X7R. The goal of Aim I is to test the hypothesis that cell-cell signaling after injury depends on association of epithelial cells with high-signaling conductor cells and proximity to “active” sensory nerves. These active nerves display mobilization along it. Our goal is to identify the conductor cells, understand their relationship with nerves and determine if intensity of signaling is correlated with age. In Aim II experiments are designed to elucidate the role of the conductor cells and determine the direction of cell-cell communication from the wound, how additional cells are recruited, if the conductor cells have enhanced intensity and frequency and if their presence depends on distance from the wound. We will use machine learning to determine if we can make predictions from the signals regarding the wound response and if so these will give us important insights.

The cornea is exposed daily to a number of mechanical stresses including shear stress from tear film and blinking. Over time, these stressors can lead to changes in the extracellular matrix that alter corneal stiffness, cell-substrate structures, and the integrity of cell-cell junctions. We hypothesized that changes in tissue stiffness of the cornea with age may alter calcium signaling between cells after injury, and the downstream effects of this signaling on cellular motility and wound healing. Nanoindentation studies revealed that there were significant differences in the stiffness of the corneal epithelium and stroma between corneas of 9- and 27-week mice. These changes corresponded to differences in the timeline of wound healing and in cell signaling. Corneas from 9-week mice were fully healed within 24 h. However, the wounds on corneas from 27-week mice remained incompletely healed. Furthermore, in the 27-week cohort there was no detectable calcium signaling at the wound in either apical or basal corneal epithelial cells. This is in contrast to the young cohort, where there was elevated basal cell activity relative to background levels. Cell culture experiments were performed to assess the roles of P2Y2, P2X7, and pannexin-1 in cellular motility during wound healing. Inhibition of P2Y2, P2X7, or pannexin-1 all significantly reduce wound closure. However, the inhibitors all have different effects on the trajectories of individual migrating cells. Together, these findings suggest that there are several significant differences in the stiffness and signaling that underlie the decreased wound healing efficacy of the cornea in older mice.

The cornea is an excellent model tissue to study how cells adapt to periods of hypoxia as it is naturally exposed to diurnal fluxes in oxygen. It is avascular, transparent, and highly innervated. In certain pathologies, such as diabetes, limbal stem cell deficiency, or trauma, the cornea may be exposed to hypoxia for variable lengths of time. Due to its avascularity, the cornea requires atmospheric oxygen, and a reduction in oxygen availability can impair its physiology and function. We hypothesize that hypoxia alters membrane stiffness and the deposition of matrix proteins, leading to changes in cell migration, focal adhesion formation, and wound repair. Two systems-a 3D corneal organ culture model and polyacrylamide substrates of varying stiffness-were used to examine the response of corneal epithelium to normoxic and hypoxic environments. Exposure to hypoxia alters the deposition of the matrix proteins such as laminin and Type IV collagen. In addition, previous studies had shown a change in fibronectin after injury. Studies performed on matrix-coated acrylamide substrates ranging from 0.2 to 50 kPa revealed stiffness-dependent changes in cell morphology. The localization, number, and length of paxillin pY118- and vinculin pY1065-containing focal adhesions were different in wounded corneas and in human corneal epithelial cells incubated in hypoxic environments. Overall, these results demonstrate that low-oxygenated environments modify the composition of the extracellular matrix, basal lamina stiffness, and focal adhesion dynamics, leading to alterations in the function of the cornea. Anat Rec, 2019. © 2019 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Epithelial wound healing is essential for maintaining the function and clarity of the cornea. Successful repair after injury involves the coordinated movements of cell sheets over the wounded region. While collective migration has been the focus of studies, the effects that environmental changes have on this form of movement are poorly understood. To examine the role of substrate compliancy on multi-layered epithelial sheet migration, we performed traction force and confocal microscopy to determine differences in traction forces and to examine focal adhesions on synthetic and biological substrates. The leading edges of corneal epithelial sheets undergo retraction or contraction prior to migration, and alterations in the sheet's stiffness are affected by the amount of force exerted by cells at the leading edge. On substrates of 30 kPa, cells exhibited greater and more rapid movement than on substrates of 8 kPa, which are similar to that of the corneal basement membrane. Vinculin and its phosphorylated residue Y1065 were prominent along the basal surface of migrating cells, while Y822 was prominent between neighboring cells along the leading edge. Vinculin localization was diffuse on a substrate where the basement membrane was removed. Furthermore, when cells were cultured on fibronectin-coated acrylamide substrates of 8 and 50 kPa and then wounded, there was an injury-induced phosphorylation of Y1065 and substrate dependent changes in the number and size of vinculin containing focal adhesions. These results demonstrate that changes in substrate stiffness affected traction forces and vinculin dynamics, which potentially could contribute to the delayed healing response associated with certain corneal pathologies.

Epithelial wound healing is essential to repair the corneal barrier function after injury and requires coordinated epithelial sheet movement over the wounded region. The presence and role of pannexin1 on multilayered epithelial sheet migration was examined in unwounded and wounded corneal epithelium from C57BL/6J (B6) control and diet-induced obese (DiO) mice, a pretype 2 diabetic model. We hypothesize that pannexin1 is dysregulated, and the interaction of two ion-channel proteins (P2X7 and pannexin1) is altered in pretype 2 diabetic tissue. Pannexin1 was found to be present along cell borders in unwounded tissue, and no significant difference was observed between DiO and B6 control. However, an epithelial debridement induced a striking difference in pannexin1 localization. The B6 control epithelium displayed intense staining near the leading edge, which is the region where calcium mobilization was detected, whereas the staining in the DiO corneal epithelium was diffuse and lacked distinct gradation in intensity back from the leading edge. Cells distal to the wound in the DiO tissue were irregular in shape, and the morphology was similar to that of epithelium inhibited with 10Panx, a pannexin1 inhibitor. Pannexin1 inhibition reduced mobilization of calcium between cells near the leading edge, and MATLAB scripts revealed a reduction in cell-cell communication that was also detected in cultured cells. Proximity ligation was performed to determine if P2X7 and pannexin1 interaction was a necessary component of motility and communication. While there was no significant difference in the interaction in unwounded DiO and B6 control corneal epithelium, there was significantly less interaction in the wounded DiO corneas both near the wound and back from the edge. The results demonstrate that pannexin1 contributes to the healing response, and P2X7 and pannexin1 coordination may be a required component of cell-cell communication and an underlying reason for the lack of pathologic tissue migration.

Type 2 diabetes is one of the leading pathologies that increases the risk of improper wound healing. Obesity has become a major risk factor for this disease that is now considered to be the 4th highest cause of preventable blindness according to the World Health Organization. The cornea is the most densely innervated structure in the human body and senses even the slightest injury. In diabetes, decreased corneal sensitivity secondary to diabetic peripheral neuropathy can lead to increased corneal abrasion, ulceration, and even blindness. In this study, a diet induced obesity (DIO) mouse model of pre-Type 2 diabetes was used to characterize changes in sensory nerves and P2X7, a purinoreceptor, a pain receptor, and an ion channel that is expressed in a number of tissues. Since our previous studies demonstrated that P2X7 mRNA was significantly elevated in diabetic human corneas, we examined P2X7 expression and localization in the DIO murine model at various times after being fed a high fat diet. Fifteen weeks after onset of diet, we found that there was a significant decrease in the density of sub-basal nerves in the DIO mice that was associated with an increase in tortuosity and a decrease in diameter. In addition, P2X7 mRNA expression was significantly greater in the corneal epithelium of DIO mice, and the increase in transcript was enhanced in the central migrating and peripheral regions after injury. Interestingly, confocal microscopy and thresholding analysis revealed that there was a significant increase in P2X7 distal to the injury, which contrasted with a decrease in P2X7-expressing stromal sensory nerves. Therefore, we hypothesize that the P2X7 receptor acts to sense changes at the leading edge following an epithelial abrasion, and this fine-tuned regulation is lost during the onset of diabetes. Further understanding of the corneal changes that occur in diabetes can help us better monitor progression of diabetic complications, as well as develop new therapeutics for the treatment of diabetic corneal dysfunction.

Deposition of matrix proteins during development and repair is critical to the transparency of the cornea. While many cells respond to a hypoxic state that can occur in a tumor, the cornea is exposed to hypoxia during development prior to eyelid opening and during the diurnal sleep cycle where oxygen levels can drop from 21% to 8%. In this study, we used 2 three-dimensional (3-D) models to examine how stromal cells respond to periods of acute hypoxic states. The first model, a stromal construct model, is a 3-D stroma-like construct that consists of human corneal fibroblasts (HCFs) stimulated by a stable form of ascorbate for 1, 2, and 4 weeks to self-assemble their own extracellular matrix. The second model, a corneal organ culture model, is a corneal wound-healing model, which consists of wounded adult rat corneas that were removed and placed in culture to heal. Both models were exposed to either normoxic or hypoxic conditions for varying time periods, and the expression and/or localization of matrix proteins was assessed. No significant changes were detected in Type V collagen, which is associated with Type I collagen fibrils; however, significant changes were detected in the expression of both the small leucine-rich repeating proteoglycans and the larger heparan sulfate proteoglycan, perlecan. Also, hypoxia decreased both the number of Cuprolinic blue-positive glycosaminoglycan chains along collagen fibrils and Sulfatase 1, which modulates the effect of heparan sulfate by removing the 6-O-sulfate groups. In the stromal construct model, alterations were seen in fibronectin, similar to those that occur in development and after injury. These changes in fibronectin after injury were accompanied by changes in proteoglycans. Together these findings indicate that acute hypoxic changes alter the physiology of the cornea, and these models will allow us to manipulate the conditions in the extracellular environment in order to study corneal development and trauma.

Chemical indicators are used to study calcium signaling events in the context of live cell imaging. Fluo-3 AM, Fluo-4 AM, and Cal-520 AM are three commonly used fluorescent indicators derived from the calcium chelator BAPTA. Here we describe sample protocols that detail how these indicators are used in in vitro and ex vivo experiments to analyze the role of calcium mobilizations in cell-cell communication and coordinated cellular motility in the context of wound healing.

Epithelial wound healing requires the coordination of cells to migrate as a unit over the basement membrane after injury. To understand the process of this coordinated movement, it is critical to study the dynamics of cell-cell communication. We developed a method to characterize the injury-induced sustained Ca2+mobilizations that travel between cells for periods of time up to several hours. These events of communication are concentrated along the wound edge and are reduced in cells further away from the wound. Our goal was to delineate the role and contribution of these sustained mobilizations and using MATLAB analyses, we determined the probability of cell-cell communication events in in vitro models and ex vivo organ culture models. We demonstrated that the injury response was complex and represented the activation of a number of receptors. In addition, we found that pannexin channels mediated the cell-cell communication and motility. Furthermore, the sustained Ca2+mobilizations are associated with changes in cell morphology and motility during wound healing. The results demonstrate that both purinoreceptors and pannexins regulate the sustained Ca2+mobilization necessary for cell-cell communication in wound healing.

The cornea is avascular, which makes it an excellent model to study matrix protein expression and tissue stiffness. The corneal epithelium adheres to the basement zone and the underlying stroma is composed of keratocytes and an extensive matrix of collagen and proteoglycans. Our goal was to examine changes in corneas of 8- and 15-week mice and compare them to 15-week pre-Type 2 diabetic obese mouse. Nanoindentation was performed on corneal epithelium in situ and then the epithelium was abraded, and the procedure repeated on the basement membrane and stroma. Confocal imaging was performed to examine the localization of proteins. Stiffness was found to be age and obesity dependent. Young&rsquo, s modulus was greater in the epithelium from 15-week mice compared to 8-week mice. At 15 weeks, the epithelium of the control was significantly greater than that of the obese mice. There was a difference in the localization of Crb3 and PKC&zeta, in the apical epithelium and a lack of lamellipodial extensions in the obese mouse. In the pre-Type 2 diabetic obese mouse there was a difference in the stiffness slope and after injury localization of fibronectin was negligible. These indicate that age and environmental changes incurred by diet alter the integrity of the tissue with age rendering it stiffer. The corneas from the pre-Type 2 diabetic obese mice were significantly softer and this may be a result of changes both in proteins on the apical surface indicating a lack of integrity and a decrease in fibronectin.

Vascular disease and its associated complications are the number one cause of death in the Western world. Both extracellular matrix stiffening and dysfunctional endothelial cells contribute to vascular disease. We examined endothelial cell calcium signaling in response to VEGF as a function of extracellular matrix stiffness. We developed a new analytical tool to analyze both population based and individual cell responses. Endothelial cells on soft substrates, 4 kPa, were the most responsive to VEGF, whereas cells on the 125 kPa substrates exhibited an attenuated response. Magnitude of activation, not the quantity of cells responding or the number of local maximums each cell experienced distinguished the responses. Individual cell analysis, across all treatments, identified two unique cell clusters. One cluster, containing most of the cells, exhibited minimal or slow calcium release. The remaining cell cluster had a rapid, high magnitude VEGF activation that ultimately defined the population based average calcium response. Interestingly, at low doses of VEGF, the high responding cell cluster contained smaller cells on average, suggesting that cell shape and size may be indicative of VEGF-sensitive endothelial cells. This study provides a new analytical tool to quantitatively analyze individual cell signaling response kinetics, that we have used to help uncover outcomes that are hidden within the average. The ability to selectively identify highly VEGF responsive cells within a population may lead to a better understanding of the specific phenotypic characteristics that define cell responsiveness, which could provide new insight for the development of targeted anti- and pro-angiogenic therapies.

Pulmonary neuroendocrine cells (PNECs) are the only innervated airway epithelial cells. To what extent neural innervation regulates PNEC secretion and function is unknown. Here, we discover that neurotrophin 4 (NT4) plays an essential role in mucus overproduction after early life allergen exposure by orchestrating PNEC innervation and secretion of GABA. We found that PNECs were the only cellular source of GABA in airways. In addition, PNECs expressed NT4 as a target-derived mechanism underlying PNEC innervation during development. Early life allergen exposure elevated the level of NT4 and caused PNEC hyperinnervation and nodose neuron hyperactivity. Associated with aberrant PNEC innervation, the authors discovered that GABA hypersecretion was required for the induction of mucin Muc5ac expression. In contrast, NT4-/- mice were protected from allergen-induced mucus overproduction and changes along the nerve-PNEC axis without any defects in inflammation. Last, GABA installation restored mucus overproduction in NT4-/- mice after early life allergen exposure. Together, our findings provide the first evidence for NT4-dependent neural regulation of PNEC secretion of GABA in a neonatal disease model. Targeting the nerve-PNEC axis may be a valid treatment strategy for mucus overproduction in airway diseases, such as childhood asthma.-Barrios, J., Patel, K. R., Aven, L., Achey, R., Minns, M. S., Lee, Y., Trinkaus-Randall, V. E., Ai, X. Early life allergen-induced mucus overproduction requires augmented neural stimulation of pulmonary neuroendocrine cell secretion.

Corneal wound healing studies have a long history and rich literature that describes the data obtained over the past 70 years using many different species of animals and methods of injury. These studies have lead to reduced suffering and provided clues to treatments that are now helping patients live more productive lives. In spite of the progress made, further research is required since blindness and reduced quality of life due to corneal scarring still happens. The purpose of this review is to summarize what is known about different types of wound and animal models used to study corneal wound healing. The subject of corneal wound healing is broad and includes chemical and mechanical wound models. This review focuses on mechanical injury models involving debridement and keratectomy wounds to reflect the authors’ expertise.

The process of wound healing involves a complex network of signaling pathways working to promote rapid cell migration and wound closure. Activation of purinergic receptors by secreted nucleotides plays a major role in calcium mobilization and the subsequent calcium-dependent signaling that is essential for proper healing. The role of the purinergic receptor P2X7 in wound healing is still relatively unknown. We demonstrate that P2X7 expression increases at the leading edge of corneal epithelium after injury in an organ culture model, and that this change occurs despite an overall decrease in P2X7 expression throughout the epithelium. Inhibition of P2X7 prevents this change in localization after injury and impairs wound healing. In cell culture, P2X7 inhibition attenuates the amplitude and duration of injury-induced calcium mobilization in cells at the leading edge. Immunofluorescence analysis of scratch-wounded cells reveals that P2X7 inhibition results in an overall decrease in the number of focal adhesions along with a concentration of focal adhesions at the wound margin. Live cell imaging of green fluorescent protein–labeled actin and talin shows that P2X7 inhibition alters actin cytoskeletal rearrangements and focal adhesion dynamics after injury. Together, these data demonstrate that P2X7 plays a critical role in mediating calcium signaling and coordinating cytoskeletal rearrangement at the leading edge, both of which processes are early signaling events necessary for proper epithelial wound healing.

Corneal integrity is critical for vision. Corneal wounds frequently heal with scarring that impairs vision. Recently, human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (cord stem cells) have been investigated for tissue engineering and therapy due to their availability and differentiation potential. In this study, we used cord stem cells in a 3-dimensional (3D) stroma-like model to observe extracellular matrix organization, with human corneal fibroblasts acting as a control. For 4 weeks, the cells were stimulated with a stable Vitamin C (VitC) derivative ±TGF-b1. After 4 weeks, the mean thickness of the constructs was ~30 mm; however, cord stem cell constructs had 50% less cells per unit volume, indicating the formation of a dense matrix. We found minimal change in decorin and lumican mRNA, and a significant increase in perlecan mRNA in the presence of TGF-b1. Keratocan on the other hand decreased with TGF-b1 in both cell lineages. With both cell types, the constructs possessed aligned collagen fibrils and associated glycosaminoglycans. Fibril diameters did not change with TGF-b1 stimulation or cell lineage; however, highly sulfated glycosaminoglycans associated with the collagen fibrils significantly increased with TGF-b1. Overall, we have shown that cord stem cells can secrete their own extracellular matrix and promote the deposition and sulfation of various proteoglycans. Furthermore, these cells are at least comparable to commonly used corneal fibroblasts and present an alternative for the 3D in vitro tissue engineered model.

Primary amyloidosis (AL) results from overproduction of unstable monoclonal immunoglobulin light chains (LCs) and the deposition of insoluble fibrils in tissues, leading to fatal organ disease. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) are associated with AL fibrils and have been successfully targeted in the treatment of other forms of amyloidosis. We investigated the role of GAGs in LC fibrillogenesis. Ex vivo tissue amyloid fibrils were extracted and examined for structure and associated GAGs. The GAGs were detected along the length of the fibril strand, and the periodicity of heparan sulfate (HS) along the LC fibrils generated in vitro was similar to that of the ex vivo fibrils. To examine the role of sulfated GAGs on AL oligomer and fibril formation in vitro, a κ1 LC purified from urine of a patient with AL amyloidosis was incubated in the presence or absence of GAGs. The fibrils generated in vitro at physiologic concentration, temperature, and pH shared morphologic characteristics with the ex vivo κ1 amyloid fibrils. The presence of HS and over-O-sulfated-heparin enhanced the formation of oligomers and fibrils with HS promoting the most rapid transition. In contrast, GAGs did not enhance fibril formation of a non-amyloidogenic κ1 LC purified from urine of a patient with multiple myeloma. The data indicate that the characteristics of the full-length κ1 amyloidogenic LC, containing post-translational modifications, possess key elements that influence interactions of the LC with HS. These findings highlight the importance of the variable and constant LC regions in GAG interaction and suggest potential therapeutic targets for treatment.

Aberrant constitutive expression of NF-kappaB subunits, reported in more than 90% of breast cancers and multiple other malignancies, plays pivotal roles in tumorigenesis. Higher RelB subunit expression was demonstrated in estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha)-negative breast cancers versus ERalpha-positive ones, due in part to repression of RelB synthesis by ERalpha signaling. Notably, RelB promoted a more invasive phenotype in ERalpha-negative cancers via induction of the BCL2 gene. We report here that RelB reciprocally inhibits ERalpha synthesis in breast cancer cells, which contributes to a more migratory phenotype. Specifically, RelB is shown for the first time to induce expression of the zinc finger repressor protein Blimp1 (B-lymphocyte-induced maturation protein), the critical mediator of B- and T-cell development, which is transcribed from the PRDM1 gene. Blimp1 protein repressed ERalpha (ESR1) gene transcription. Commensurately higher Blimp1/PRDM1 expression was detected in ERalpha-negative breast cancer cells and primary breast tumors. Induction of PRDM1 gene expression was mediated by interaction of Bcl-2, localized in the mitochondria, with Ras. Thus, the induction of Blimp1 represents a novel mechanism whereby the RelB NF-kappaB subunit mediates repression, specifically of ERalpha, thereby promoting a more migratory phenotype.

The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the presence of vinculin and alpha 2 integrin in chondrocytes in situ and epithelial cells. We also determined that the appropriate fixation and extraction protocols for immunohistochemistry and laser scanning confocal microscopy for an integral membrane protein and an actin-associated protein in cultured cells and whole tissue was different. Cultured epithelial cells, whole mount human cornea and avian cartilage were fixed and prepared using a number of standard procedures used for indirect fluorescence immunohistochemistry. The distribution of vinculin was cell-type and fixation-specific. Chondrocytes and cultured epithelial cells demonstrated vinculin in areas that appear to be associated with filamentous actin. Vinculin was associated with cell membranes in human cornea. The expression of alpha 2 integrin observed in chondrocytes fixed with methanol, paraformaldehyde, or formaldehyde is consistent with its role in cell-substrate interaction, but may also suggest a role in dividing and differentiating cells. The localization of alpha 2 integrin in human corneal epithelia supports its role as a cell-cell adhesion molecule. The cytoplasmic distribution of vinculin and alpha 2 integrin in tissues fixed without detergent extraction suggests that the fixation step may be sufficient for antibody penetration and antigen extraction. These studies are the first report of vinculin and alpha 2 integrin in embryonic chondrocytes. In addition we have shown that confocal laser scanning microscopy combined with proper fixation and extraction protocols may optimize the localization of antigens in cultured and whole mount cells.

Wound healing is a complex process that involves cell communication, migration, proliferation, and changes in gene expression. One of the first events after injury is the rapid release of Ca2+ that propagates as a wave to neighboring cells (Klepeis et al. [2001]: J. Cell. Sci. 114:4185–4195). Our goal was to examine the signaling events induced by cellular injury and identify extracellular molecules that induce the activation of extracellular signal responsive kinase (ERK) (p42/44). In this study we demonstrated that injury induced ERK1/2 activation occurred within 2 min and was negligible by 15 min. Treatment of unwounded cells with wound media caused activation of ERK that could be inhibited by apyrase III. Stimulation with epidermal growth factor (EGF) did not mimic the injury response and it was not detected in the wound media. To identify the active component, size fractionation was performed and factor(s) less than 3 kDa that induced the release of Ca2+ and activation of ERK1/2 were identified. Activity was not altered by heat denaturation, incubation with proteinase K but it was lost by treatment with apyrase. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP), uridine triphosphate (UTP), adenosine diphosphate (ADP), and uridine diphosphate (UDP) promoted activation by 2 min with similar profiles as that generated by injury. Preincubation with phospholipase C inhibitor, U73122, inhibited activation that was induced by injury and/or nucleotides. Lack of activation by alpha-beta-methylATP (α, β-MeATP) and beta-gamma-methylATP (β, γ-MeATP) to purinergic (P)2X receptors further indicated that activation occurs via P2Y and not P2X purinergic receptors. These results indicate that injury-induced activation of ERK1/2 is mediated by a P2Y signaling pathway. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Aims: To evaluate the expression of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) mRNA in stromal cells in response to injury in the presence of either TGF-β1 or FGF-2. It has been shown previously that heparan sulfate proteoglycans and FGF-2 are present transiently during wound repair in vivo and that an increase in TGF-β1 mRNA is detected rapidly after injury. Methods: Primary corneal fibroblasts were cultured to confluency, serum starved, and linear wound(s) were made in medium containing TGF-β1 or FGF-2. TGF-β1 and FGF-2 mRNA expression were evaluated using both northern blot analysis and in situ hybridisation. Both dose dependent and time course experiments were performed. Whole eye organ culture experiments were also carried out and growth factor expression was assessed. Results: Injury and exogenous TGF-β1 increased TGF-β1 mRNA values. The increase in expression of FGF-2 mRNA was not detected until wound closure. In contrast, FGF-2 inhibited the expression of TGF-β1. TGF-β1 increased TGF-β1 mRNA stability but did not alter that of FGF-2. Migration assay data demonstrated that unstimulated stromal cells could be activated to migrate to specific growth factors. Conclusions: TGF-β1 specifically enhances cellular responsiveness, as shown by increased stability after injury and the acquisition of a migratory phenotype. These data suggest that there is an integral relation during wound repair between TGF-β1 and FGF-2.

The process of wound healing must be tightly regulated to achieve successful restoration of injured tissue. Previously, we demonstrated that when corneal epithelium is injured, nucleotides and neuronal factors are released to the extracellular milieu, generating a Ca2+wave from the origin of the wound to neighboring cells. In the present study we sought to determine how the communication between epithelial cells in the presence or absence of neuronal wound media is affected by hypoxia. A signal-sorting algorithm was developed to determine the dynamics of Ca2+signaling between neuronal and epithelial cells. The cross talk between activated corneal epithelial cells in response to neuronal wound media demonstrated that injury-induced Ca2+dynamic patterns were altered in response to decreased O2levels. These alterations were associated with an overall decrease in ATP and changes in purinergic receptor-mediated Ca2+mobilization and localization of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors. In addition, we used the cornea in an organ culture wound model to examine how hypoxia impedes reepithelialization after injury. There was a change in the recruitment of paxillin to the cell membrane and deposition of fibronectin along the basal lamina, both factors in cell migration. Our results provide evidence that complex Ca2+-mediated signaling occurs between sensory neurons and epithelial cells after injury and is critical to wound healing. Information revealed by these studies will contribute to an enhanced understanding of wound repair under compromised conditions and provide insight into ways to effectively stimulate proper epithelial repair.

Keratoconus (KC) affects 1:2000 people and is a disorder where cornea thins and assumes a conical shape. Advanced KC requires surgery to maintain vision. The role of oxidative stress in KC remains unclear. We aimed to identify oxidative stress levels between human corneal keratocytes (HCKs), fibroblasts (HCFs) and keratoconus cells (HKCs). Cells were cultured in 2D and 3D systems. Vitamin C (VitC) and TGF-β3 (T3) were used for 4 weeks to stimulate self-assembled extracellular matrix (ECM). No T3 used as controls. Samples were analyzed using qRT-PCR and metabolomics. qRT-PCR data showed low levels of collagen I and V, as well as keratocan for HKCs, indicating differentiation to a myofibroblast phenotype. Collagen type III, a marker for fibrosis, was up regulated in HKCs. We robustly detected more than 150 metabolites of the targeted 250 by LC-MS/MS per condition and among those metabolites several were related to oxidative stress. Lactate levels, lactate/malate and lactate/pyruvate ratios were elevated in HKCs, while arginine and glutathione/oxidized glutathione ratio were reduced. Similar patterns found in both 2D and 3D. Our data shows that fibroblasts exhibit enhanced oxidative stress compared to keratocytes. Furthermore the HKC cells exhibit the greatest level suggesting they may have a myofibroblast phenotype.

Multiple extracellular factors are hypothesized to promote the differentiation of unstimulated and/or stimulated secretory pathways in exocrine secretory cells, but the identity of differentiation factors, particularly those organ-specific, remain largely unknown. Here, we report on the identification of a novel secreted glycoprotein, lacritin, that enhances exocrine secretion in overnight cultures of lacrimal acinar cells which otherwise display loss of secretory function. Lacritin mRNA and protein are highly expressed in human lacrimal gland, moderately in major and minor salivary glands and slightly in thyroid. No lacritin message or protein is detected elsewhere among more than 50 human tissues examined. Lacritin displays partial similarity to the glycosaminoglycan-binding region of brain-specific neuroglycan C (32% identity over 102 amino acid residues) and to the possibly mucin-like amino globular region of fibulin-2 (30 % identity over 81 amino acid residues), and localizes primarily to secretory granules and secretory fluid. The lacritin gene consists of five exons, displays no alternative splicing and maps to 12q13. Recombinant lacritin augments unstimulated but not stimulated acinar cell secretion, promotes ductal cell proliferation, and stimulates signaling through tyrosine phosphorylation and release of calcium. It binds collagen IV, laminin-1, entactin/nidogen-1, fibronectin and vitronectin, but not collagen I, heparin or EGF. As an autocrine/paracrine enhancer of the lacrimal constitutive secretory pathway, ductal cell mitogen and stimulator of corneal epithelial cells, lacritin may play a key role in the function of the lacrimal gland-corneal axis.

The mechanisms underlying TGF-b regulation in response to injury are not fully understood. We have developed an in vitro wound model to evaluate the expression and localization of transforming growth factor-b 1i n rabbit corneal fibroblasts in response to injury. Experiments were conducted in the presence or absence of serum so that the effect of the injury could be distinguished from exogenous wound mediators. Cultures were wounded and evaluations conducted over a number of time points. Expression of TGF-b1 RNA was determined using Northern blot analysis and in situ hybridization, while the TGF-b receptors were identified by affinity cross-linking. Injury increased the expression of TGF-b1 mRNA in cells at the wound edge after 30 min; this response was amplified by the addition of serum. TGF-b1 mRNA expression was observed in a number of cells distal from the wound. After wound closure, TGF-b1 mRNA was negligible and resembled unwounded cultures. The half-life of TGF-b1 mRNA was two times greater in the wounded cultures, indicating that the injury itself maintained the expression, while cell migration was present. Analogous to these findings, we found that binding of TGF-b to its receptors was maximal at the wound edge, decreasing with time and distance from the wound. These results indicate that injury increases the level of expression of TGF-b1 mRNA and maintains a higher level of receptor binding during events in wound repair and that these might facilitate the migratory and synthetic response of stromal fibroblasts. J. Cell. Biochem. 77:186 -199, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Our goal was to evaluate early signaling events that occur as epithelial cells make initial contact with a substrate and to correlate them with phosphorylation. The corneal epithelium was chosen to study signaling events that occur with adhesion because it represents a simple system in which the tissue adheres to a basal lamina, is avascular, and is bathed by a tear film in which changes in the local environment are hypothesized to alter signaling. To perform these experiments we developed a novel adhesion assay to capture the changes in intracellular Ca(2+) and pH that occur as a cell makes its initial contact with a substrate. The first transient cytosolic Ca(2+) peak was detected only as the cell made contact with the substrate and was demonstrated using fluorimetric assays combined with live cell imaging. We demonstrated that this transient Ca(2+) peak always preceded a cytoplasmic alkalization. When the intracellular environment was modified, the initial response was altered. Pretreatment with 1,2-bis(o-aminophenoxy)ethane-N,N, N'N'-tetraacetic acid (BAPTA), an intracellular chelator, inhibited Ca(2+) mobilization, whereas benzamil altered the duration of the oscillations. Thapsigargin caused an initial Ca(2+) release followed by a long attenuated response. An inositol triphosphate analog induced a large initial response, whereas heparin inhibited Ca(2+) oscillations. Inhibitors of tyrosine phosphorylation did not alter the initial mobilization of cytosolic Ca(2) but clearance of cytosolic Ca(2+) was inhibited. Exposing corneal epithelial cells to BAPTA, benzamil, or thapsigargin also attenuated the phosphorylation of the focal adhesion protein paxillin. However, although heparin inhibited Ca(2+) oscillations, it did not alter phosphorylation of paxillin. These studies demonstrate that the initial contact that a cell makes with a substrate modulates the intracellular environment, and that changes in Ca(2+) mobilization can alter later signaling events such as the phosphorylation of specific adhesion proteins. These findings may have implications for wound repair and development.

Our goal was to evaluate the role of epidermal growth factor and injury on the expression of integrin subunits alpha6(alpha6) and beta4(beta4). An in vitro wound model was used to evaluate corneal wound repair and cellular migration. Primary rabbit corneal epithelial cell cultures were serum-starved and injured in the presence or absence of EGF or tyrphostin AG1478, an inhibitor of EGF receptor kinase activity. Repair was monitored morphologically and expression was analyzed using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry accompanied by confocal microscopy. The addition of EGF to cell cultures induced a dose-dependent increase in beta4 mRNA expression but the constitutive expression of alpha6 was several fold greater. In the wounded cultures there was a rapid change in expression at the edge of the wound that was enhanced with EGF. In our model there was an increase in beta4 and alpha6 protein in migrating cells. Changes in integrin expression were accompanied by a transient increase in activation of the EGF receptor. The addition of tyrphostin inhibited migration of cells and wound repair, the activation of the EGF receptor and phosphorylation of beta4 in the cytoplasm. These data indicate that the activation of the EGF receptor plays a critical role in the regulation of integrin receptors and the mediation of cellular migration.

Vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs), the major cellular constituent of the medial layer of an artery, synthesize the majority of connective tissue proteins, including fibrillar collagen types I, III, and V/XI. Proper collagen synthesis and deposition, which are important for the integrity of the arterial wall, require the antioxidant vitamin C. Vitamin C serves as cofactor for the enzymes prolyl and lysyl hydroxylase, which are responsible for the proper hydroxylation of collagen. Here, the role of type V collagen in the assembly of collagen fibrils in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of cultured vascular SMCs was investigated. Treatment of SMCs with vitamin C resulted in a dramatic induction in the levels of the cell-layer associated pepsin-resistant type V collagen, whereas only a minor induction in the levels of types I and III collagen was detected. Of note, the deposition of type V collagen was accompanied by the formation of striated collagen fibrils in the ECM. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that type V collagen, but not type I collagen, became masked as collagen fibrils matured. Furthermore, the relative ratio of type V to type I collagen decreased as the ECM matured as a function of days in culture, and this decrease was accompanied by an increase in the diameter of collagen fibrils. Together these results suggest that the masking of type V collagen is caused by its internalization on continuous deposition of type I collagen on the exterior of the fibril. Furthermore, they suggest that type V collagen acts as framework for the initial assembly of collagen molecules into heterotypic fibrils, regulating the diameter and architecture of these fibrils. J. Cell. Biochem. 80:146–155, 2000. © 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

The role of cell density in modulating basic fibroblast growth factor binding and activity was investigated. A primary corneal stromal fibroblast cell culture system was used, since these cells do not constitutively express heparan sulfate proteoglycans in vivo except after injury. A 3-5-fold reduction in bFGF binding per cell was observed as cell density increased from 1000 to 35,000 cells/cm2. The cell density-dependent change in bFGF binding was not the result of altered FGFR expression as determined by equilibrium binding experiments and by immunoblot analysis. However, bFGF-cell surface receptor binding affinities were measured to be 10-20-fold higher at low cell densities than at intermediate and high cell density. bFGF-induced cell proliferation was also cell density-dependent, with maximal stimulation of proliferation 190-280% greater at intermediate densities (15,000 cells/cm2) than at other cell densities. This effect was specific to bFGF as serum, epidermal growth factor, and transforming growth factor-beta did not exhibit the same density-dependent profile. Further, heparan sulfate proteoglycans and, specifically, syndecan-4 were implicated as the modulator of bFGF binding and activity. Pretreatment of cell cultures with heparinase resulted in reduced bFGF binding to the cells and abrogated bFGF induced proliferation. These data suggest a mechanism by which cell density regulates heparan sulfate proteoglycan expression and modulates the cellular response to bFGF. Modulation of heparan sulfate proteoglycan expression might be an important aspect of the regulation of stromal cell migration and proliferation during wound healing.

A culture system was developed to analyze the relationship between proteoglycans and growth factors during corneal injury. Specifically, the effects of transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-beta1) and fetal calf serum on proteoglycan synthesis in corneal fibroblasts were examined. Glycosaminoglycan synthesis and sulfation were determined using selective polysaccharidases. Proteoglycan core proteins were analyzed using gel electrophoresis and Western blotting. Cells cultured in 10% dialyzed fetal calf serum exhibited decreased synthesis of more highly sulfated chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate compared with cells cultured in 1% dialyzed fetal calf serum. The amount and sulfation of the glycosaminoglycans was not significantly influenced by TGF-beta1. The major proteoglycan species secreted into the media were decorin and perlecan. Decorin was glycanated with chondroitin sulfate. Perlecan was linked to either chondroitin sulfate, heparan sulfate, or both chondroitin sulfate and heparan sulfate. Decorin synthesis was reduced by either TGF-beta1 or serum. At early time points, both TGF-beta1 and serum induced substantial increases in perlecan bearing chondroitin sulfate and/or heparan sulfate chains. In contrast, after extended periods in culture, the amount of perlecan bearing heparan sulfate chains was unaffected by TGF-beta1 and decreased by serum. The levels of perlecan bearing chondroitin sulfate chains were elevated with TGF-beta1 treatment and were decreased with serum. Because both decorin and perlecan bind growth factors and are proposed to modulate their activity, changes in the expression of either of these proteoglycans could substantially affect the cellular response to injury.

The overall goals of this study were to establish the level at which elastin gene expression is regulated during chick lung embryogenesis and to identify the temporal and spatial relationships among elastogenesis, smooth muscle cell differentiation, and cell proliferation. A comparison of lung elastin mRNA and transcriptional levels during embryogenesis shows that elastin expression is developmentally regulated at the transcriptional level. The increase in elastogenic activity occurs during the late stages of lung embryogenesis and coincides with terminal maturation of the tertiary bronchi. In situ hybridization analysis demonstrates that the increase in elastin mRNA expression is confined to the tertiary bronchial respiratory subunits, connective tissue septa, and supporting vasculature of the lung parenchyma. Immunohistochemical localization of smooth muscle cell alpha-actin and tropoelastin suggests that alpha-actin-immunoreactive cells of the lung parenchyma are a major contributor to the increase in elastin expression during embryogenesis. This observation is also reflected by Northern blot analysis, which demonstrates a temporal coincidence in the increase of both alpha-actin and elastin mRNA levels. Histone mRNA expression, which was used as an index of cellular proliferation, reveals a level and spatial pattern inversely related to that of the elastin transcript. Tissue transfections of chick lungs isolated from 18-day embryos with various elastin gene deletion/reporter constructs illustrate that the elastin promoter is not promiscuous within a tissue environment and that sequences spanning the -500 to +2 region are capable of directing promoter activity spatially comparable to the endogenous elastin gene.

AIM—The goal was to compare the biological response of the corneal stroma with three porous materials: a melt blown microfibre web of polybutylene:polypropylene (80:20); a polyester spun laced fabric (polyethylene terephthalate), and an expanded polytetrafluoroethylene. Fifty per cent of each of the materials were modified using argon radio frequency. METHODS—Discs (6 mm in diameter) were inserted into interlamellar stromal pockets and followed for a period of 12 weeks. Clinical evaluations were performed weekly. At 6 and 12 weeks, fibroplasia and the distribution of matrix proteins and growth factors (bFGF and TGF-β) were evaluated immunohistochemically. The characterisation of glycosaminoglycans was determined after selective extraction and digestion. RESULTS—The response to the disc resembled that of a wound with a decrease in keratan sulphate and an increase in dermatan sulphate. Pretreatment of the discs reduced corneal oedema and neovascularisation. Heparan sulphate, not normally detected in the corneal stroma, was detected in the region immediately surrounding the disc and in the discs of some materials. The presence of glycosaminoglycans and collagens in the disc indicated that cells had migrated into the disc and deposited a complex matrix in all three materials. The collagen response was not surface specific. bFGF and TGF-β were detected in the region between the disc and the stroma in the polybutylene material and became diffuse with time. CONCLUSION—Fibroplasia occurred most rapidly into the polyester discs but was accompanied by a large number of inflammatory cells. While the distribution of collagens was not altered by the material, the expression and distribution of growth factors was material dependent. bFGF was expressed transiently and occurred before that of TGF-β. It is predicted that the transient expression of growth factors mediates the regulation of matrix proteins. Keywords: synthetic cornea; basic fibroblast growth factor; glycosaminoglycans; wound healing; cornea

We have designed a synthetic cornea that has a transparent hydrogel optic and a porous skirt. The device has been implanted in rabbit corneas. We have shown that keratocytes migrate into the device and deposit a complex extracellular matrix. The immediate response is detected in the surrounding stroma, and the secondary response is seen after cells have deposited a matrix in the disc. After implantation, a decrease in keratan sulfate accompanied by an increase in dermatan sulfate was detected in the surrounding tissue compared to the unwounded corneal stroma. The glycosaminoglycans in the disc resemble that of an injured stroma. The appearance of heparan sulfate and growth factors, bFGF and TGFbeta, was not detected until 6 weeks after implantation. The growth factors were detected at the interface between the device and the tissue and become more diffuse over time. Methods of controlled release in vivo were used to enhance the rate of fibroplasia and wound repair. While these were successful in the cornea itself, when combined with the synthetic cornea the response was magnified and the initial attempts yielded neovascularization and edema. Currently, efforts are being directed at controlling the release within the porous haptic so that fibroplasia is enhanced while minimizing an inflammatory response.

Chondrocytes in specific areas of the chick sternum have different developmental fates. Cephalic chondrocytes become hypertrophic and secrete type X collagen into the extracellular matrix prior to bone deposition. Middle and caudal chondrocytes remain cartilaginous throughout development and continue to secrete collagen types II, IX, and XI. The interaction of integrin receptors with extracellular matrix molecules has been shown to affect cytoskeleton organization, proliferation, differentiation, and gene expression in other cell types. We hypothesized that chondrocyte survival and differentiation including the deposition into interstitial matrix of type X collagen may be integrin receptor mediated. To test this hypothesis, a serum-free organ culture sternal model that recapitulates normal development and maintains the three-dimensional relationships of the tissue was developed. We examined chondrocyte differentiation by five parameters: type X collagen deposition into interstitial matrix, sternal growth, actin distribution, cell shape, and cell diameter changes. Additional sterna were analyzed for apoptosis using a fragmented DNA assay. Sterna were organ cultured with blocking antibodies specific for integrin subunits (alpha2, alpha3, or beta1). In the presence of anti-beta1 integrin (25 microg/ml, clone W1B10), type X collagen deposition into interstitial matrix and sternal growth were significantly inhibited. In addition, all chondrocytes were significantly smaller, the actin was disrupted, and there was a significant increase in apoptosis throughout the specimens. Addition of anti-alpha2 (10 microg/ml, clone P1E6) or anti-alpha3 (10 microg/ml, clone P1B5) integrin partially inhibited type X collagen deposition into interstitial matrix; however, sternal growth and cell size were significantly decreased. These data are the first obtained from intact tissue and demonstrate that the interaction of chondrocytes with extracellular matrix is required for chondrocyte survival and differentiation.

Our goal was to quantitate the expression and localization of integrin subunits alpha 6 and beta 4 by corneal epithelial cells on defined synthetic substrates. Previously we demonstrated that the cytoplasmic pH and translocation of the alpha 6 integrin subunit to the cell membrane was modified by ionic interactions. These results suggest that changes in the ionic interactions at the cell-substrate interface not only alter the intracellular milieu but ultimately affect the expression of adhesion proteins. To test this hypothesis, hydroxyethylmethacrylate (hema) hydrogels were modified by the addition of amines (N,N-dimethylaminoethylmethacrylate) or carboxyl moieties (methacrylic acid). Changes in the distribution of mRNA and protein were monitored using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The steady state level of integrin mRNA was evaluated, and the results indicate that while the plating efficiency was identical on all surfaces, the expression and localization of integrin subunits was surface dependent. Alpha 6 and beta 4 proteins were localized along the basal surface of nonpermeabilized cells cultured on laminin, on surfaces with amine moieties, and on those with amine and carboxyl moieties. The level of diffuse cytoplasmic staining increased with the presence of carboxyl moieties. Alpha 6 and beta 4 integrin subunits were negligible when the surfaces contained carboxyl moieties alone. The expression of alpha 6 and beta 4 mRNA was higher on surfaces containing amine moieties than on surfaces containing only carboxyl moieties. These results indicate that the characteristics of the substrate and the resulting cell-matrix interaction alter protein and mRNA expression of integrin subunits.

We have demonstrated that the optimal surface treatment of a polyvinylalcoholcopolymer hydrogel for epithelial cell migration and proliferation is an argon radio frequency (rf) plasma treatment. The surface chemistry of the material was determined prior to each cellular evaluation, allowing us to compare the biological response with a known surface chemistry. The cellular response was carried out in a consistent manner a minimum of three separate runs. We found that the optimal conditions required culturing the cells under constant rotation. Cells became confluent on argon-plasma-treated surfaces coated under several different reactions pressures, and after 2 weeks they became multilayered. Our experiments demonstrated that cells proliferated and extracellular matrix and adhesion proteins were present only when the surface was treated with an argon rf plasma; acetone- and ammonia-treated surfaces did not yield the desired results. Organ culture experiments further demonstrated the efficacy of the argon-treated surfaces. In these experiments, intact keratoprosthetic devices with modified hydrogel surfaces were implanted into rabbit corneas. The excised corneas containing the devices were cultured, and 3 weeks later, using confocal laser scanning microscopy, confluent epithelium was detected on the modified hydrogel surface. This is the first demonstration that rabbit limbal epithelial cells can migrate onto a synthetic cornea containing a modified hydrogel-treated surface and form a confluent surface of epithelium.

Our goal was to: 1) modify poly(vinyl alcohol) hydrogels intended for use in a synthetic cornea to absorb ultraviolet light and 2) develop molding procedures for the fabrication of the device. Two ultraviolet light-absorbing monomers were incorporated by copolymerization. The resulting hydrogels protected against ultraviolet light, were not toxic to corneal fibroblasts, and the protection did not diminish during prolonged aqueous exposure. A novel keratoprosthesis molding procedure was developed that made use of the phase transition properties of mixtures of poly(vinyl-trifluoroacetate) and acetonitrile. In this procedure the keratoprosthesis was shaped and a fibrous skirt was bonded to it in a single operation. Composite keratoprostheses were designed and prepared for in vivo testing.

Modulation of cell behavior may occur through cell adhesion receptors that bind domains of extracellular matrix molecules and mediate cell-substrate signal transduction. It was hypothesized that while primary corneal epithelial cells seeded onto laminin and fibronectin express and synthesize integrin receptors, they are not detected on the plasma membrane until the appropriate ligand is present. The integrin subunits (alpha-6, beta-4 and beta-1) present on the plasma membrane after adherence to laminin and fibronectin were compared with changes that occurred in mRNA expression and protein synthesis. Prior to seeding, the percentage of cells expressing integrin receptors and matrix proteins on their plasma membrane was determined. Negligible laminin and fibronectin (0-7%) were present on the plasma membrane while the population of epithelial cells expressing beta-4 and beta-1 on the plasma membrane was low (21-23%). After 3 hr of adherence the cell population expressing integrin subunits was substrate dependent. The percentage of cells adherent to LM expressing beta-4 was four-fold greater than cells adherent to FN. After 24 hr the percentage of cells cultured on fibronectin expressing beta-4 increased significantly indicating ligand deposition. The expression and protein synthesis of alpha-6 and beta-4 was evaluated and an increase in the synthesis of alpha-6 and beta-4 was not detected until 18 hr on LM and 21 hr on FN. The present results demonstrate that expression and transport of integrin receptors to the plasma membrane of primary corneal epithelial cells after adhesion is regulated by the presence of specific ligands.

Protein phosphorylation is a dynamic post-translational modification. Mass spectrometry–based quantitation was performed to determine the phosphoproteome profile of epithelial cells in response to injury, nucleotide, or epidermal growth factor. Phosphotyrosine enrichment used immunoprecipitation and immobilized metal affinity chromatography. Nucleotides released after scratch wounding activate purinergic receptors, leading to a distinct phosphorylation profile on epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) compared with its natural ligand. ATP induced a 2- to 15-fold phosphorylation increase over control on EGFR Y974, Y1086, and Y1148, with minimal phosphorylation intensity on EGFR Y1173 compared with the level measured in response to epidermal growth factor. Differential phosphorylation induced by epidermal growth factor or ATP was site specific on Src, Shc, phospholipase Cγ, protein kinase C, focal adhesion kinase, paxillin, and mitogen-activated protein kinases 1, 12, and 13. After wounding, the P2Y 2 receptor mRNA expression increased, and after knockdown, migration and Ca 2+ mobilization were impaired. To examine phosphorylation mediated by P2Y 2 , cells were cultured in media containing stable isotope-labeled amino acids, the receptor was knocked down, and the cells were stimulated. Mass spectrometry–based comparison of the phosphorylation profiles of control versus transfected cells revealed a 50-fold decrease in phosphorylation of EGFR Y974 and 1086, with no decrease in Y1173 phosphorylation. A similarfold decrease in Src Y421 and Y446 and paxillin Y118 was detected, indicating the far-reaching importance of the P2Y 2 receptor in mediating migration.

We have previously shown that TGF-β3 (T3) stimulates extracellular matrix (ECM) assembly while maintaining antifibrotic characteristics in a model using human corneal fibroblasts (HCFs). This model, however, requires non-physiological levels of serum. In the current study, we tested whether T3 could stimulate human corneal keratocytes (HCKs) in vitro to assemble a functional ECM, while maintaining their characteristics.Human corneal keratocytes and HCFs were isolated and cultured using 1% or 10% serum, respectively ±T3. The constructs were processed for indirect immunofluorescence (IF), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and qRT-PCR, analyzing for keratocyte marker, keratocan, and ECM components, collagen (col) types I, III, and V.Quantitative reverse transcriptase PCR data showed that keratocan, col I, and V were all upregulated in HCKs compared with HCFs, whereas col III was expressed at low levels in HCKs. Transforming growth factor beta 3 stimulation further enhanced the level of change. Without T3, HCK constructs were very thin, approximately 5 μm; however, as with HCFs, upon stimulation with T3, HCK constructs increased in thickness by approximately 5-fold. Cell counts and ECM production revealed that HCKs assembled more ECM per unit area compared with HCFs, and IF revealed downregulation of fibrotic markers, col III, and thrombospondin-1, with T3 stimulation. Transmission electron microscopy data revealed aligned ECM with long fibrils for all conditions except HCK Controls. Human corneal keratocytes+T3 also showed denser collagen fibrils with more consistent fibril diameter.Overall, the data suggests that it is possible to stimulate matrix secretion and assembly by HCKs in vitro by using a single growth factor, T3.

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) drives both endothelial cell maintenance and normal/pathological angiogenesis. Recent research has suggested that mechanical signaling due to the stiffness...

Our goal was to determine the early response of corneal epithelial cells to living modified stromal substrates. We examined the distribution of integrin subunits (alpha 6 and beta 4), vinculin and the organization of F-actin in epithelial cells after cell-matrix and cell-cell hypothesized that the distribution of proteins in the cell matrix attachment complex would be altered if the substrate was modified. Integrin subunits, alpha 6 and beta 4, were chosen as they play a role in cell matrix adhesion and adhesion site formation. Corneal epithelial cells were cultured from explants and seeded on three corneal substrates (a stroma containing an intact basal lamina, a cornea lacking a basal lamina and a cornea treated with alkali). After 3 h of incubation, the tissue was fixed and stained with monoclonal antibodies specific for vinculin and for the integrin subunits alpha 6 and beta 4. The organization of F-actin was assessed using rhodamine phalloidin. The localization of the proteins was recorded with confocal laser scanning microscopy. Filamentous actin delineated the lateral cell membranes of corneal epithelial cells. The organization of actin and distribution of vinculin and integrin subunits of epithelial cells cultured on stromal substrates containing a basal lamina mimicked a simple epithelial organization. In contrast, when cells are cultured on the substrate lacking a basal lamina and alkaline treated corneal substrates the distribution of the specific proteins examined was altered. Vinculin and alpha 6 were present along membranes of cells cultured on substrates lacking a basal lamina and were diffuse in cells cultured on the alkaline substrates. These studies demonstrate that changes in the distribution of adhesion and cytoskeletal proteins in response to different surfaces may contribute to the healing dynamics in different wounds.

Epithelial wounds usually heal relatively quickly, but repair may be impaired by environmental stressors, such as hypoxic or diabetic states, rendering patients vulnerable to a number of corneal pathologies. Though this response appears simple, at first, years of research have uncovered the complicated biochemical pathways coordinating the wound healing response. Here, we investigate signaling cascades and individual proteins involved in the corneal epithelium's self-repair. We will explore how an epithelial cell migrates across the wound bed and attaches itself to its new post-injury surroundings, including its neighboring cells and the basement membrane, through focal adhesions and hemidesmosomes. We will also discuss how the cell coordinates this motion physiologically, through calcium signaling and protein phosphorylation, focusing on the communication through purinergic, glutamatergic, and growth factor receptors. Many of these aspects reflect and can be extended to similar epithelial surfaces, and can be used to facilitate wound healing in patients with various underlying pathologies. The collective library of laboratory and clinical research done around the world has demonstrated how important precise regulation of these processes is in order for the injured corneal epithelium to properly heal.