[Expression and modulation of basic fibroblast growth factor in bovine lens epithelial cells].

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the expression of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in bovine lens epithelial cells (BLEC), the effects of fetal bovine serum on the expression of bFGF and to explore the effect of breakdown of blood-aqueous barrier on the expression of bFGF after cataract surgery.

METHODS

BLEC were isolated and cultured. Western blot and immunohistochemistry method were used to determine the expression of bFGF in these cells. The dose effects (0.2%, 1.0%, 10.0% fetal bovine serum) and time effects (4, 8, 12, 24 h) of 10.0% fetal bovine serum on the expression of bFGF in BLEC were estimated by Western blot analysis.

RESULTS

Immunocytochemical study revealed that the cytoplasm of BLEC could be stained positively by the anti-bFGF antibodies. Western blot analysis revealed the presence of bFGF with a molecular weight of 18 000. The expression of bFGF was upregulated in a dose-dependent and time-dependent manner by fetal bovine serum. There was statistically significant difference among the control group and the fetal bovine serum treated group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

BLEC express relatively low molecular weight bFGF. Fetal bovine serum can upregulate the expression of bFGF in the BLEC. Breakdown of blood-aqueous barrier after cataract surgery can stimulate the expression of bFGF in lens epithelial cells through increasing the serum level in the aqueous humor.