Serum-induced differentiation of human meibomian gland epithelial cells.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

We hypothesize that culturing immortalized human meibomian gland epithelial cells in serum-containing medium will induce their differentiation. The purpose of this investigation was to begin to test our hypothesis, and explore the impact of serum on gene expression and lipid accumulation in human meibomian gland epithelial cells.

Methods

Immortalized and primary human meibomian gland epithelial cells were cultured in the presence or absence of serum. Cells were evaluated for lysosome and lipid accumulation, polar and neutral lipid profiles, and gene expression.

Results

Our results support our hypothesis that serum stimulates the differentiation of human meibomian gland epithelial cells. This serum-induced effect is associated with a significant increase in the

SUBMITTER: Sullivan DA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4064688 | biostudies-literature | 2014 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature