Characterization of Corneal Epithelial Cells in Keratoconus.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

We studied the cellular characteristics of epithelial cells in the cone and extraconal periphery of corneas in keratoconus eyes.

Methods

This prospective observational study was conducted at Narayana Nethralaya Eye Institute. A total of 83 and 42 eyes with keratoconus and normal topography, respectively, were included in the study. Corneal epithelial cells were collected and analyzed for apoptosis, proliferation, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and differentiation status using molecular and biochemical tools. Statistical analysis was performed using the Student's t-test.

Results

Corneal epithelial cells from the cone showed significantly higher expression of proapoptotic marker BAX (P < 0.005) compared to controls. Significantly elevated expre

SUBMITTER: Shetty R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6322712 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature