Targeted overexpression of TGF-α in the corneal epithelium of adult transgenic mice induces changes in anterior segment morphology and activates noncanonical Wnt signaling.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-α) transduces its signal through the epidermal growth factor receptor and is essential for corneal epithelial homeostasis. Previous studies have demonstrated that overexpression of TGF-α in the developing eye leads to anterior segment dysgenesis. However, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Here we examined the effects of TGF-α overexpression on adult ocular surface homeostasis.

Methods

Binary Tet-On transgenic Krt12(rtTA)/tet-O-TGF-α mice were subjected to doxycycline (Dox) induction to overexpress TGF-α in the corneal epithelium. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was measured by noninvasive tonometry. The enucleated eyes of the experimental mice were subjected to histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and biochemistry examination

SUBMITTER: Yuan Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3626521 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature