Expression of βig-h3 in keratoconus and normal cornea

摘要

Objectives To observe the expression of βig-h3 in normal cornea and keratoconus and to elucidate the role of extracellular matrix in keratoconus. Methods In situ hybridization was used to detect the expression of βig-h3 in the cornea. The cDNA library was screened with human βig-h3 cDNA probe to locate βig-h3 mRNA in cells. Results Expression of βig-h3 was found mainly in the stroma of the normal cornea and keratoconus, but decrease depending on the degree of keratopathy. In some serious cases, no expression signal was detected. The strongest expression was seen at the border of the normal region and keratoconus. Conclusions βig-h3, the structural component of the extracellular matrix, can affect cell adhensiveness in the development of corneal fibrous interstitial organization. During the development of keratoconus, decreasing levels of βig-h3 cause the diminution of corneal steadiness, which is related to formation of keratoconus.