Immunolocalization of prostanoid EP receptor isotypes in human trabecular meshwork.

Purpose: To assess the localization of the EP-type prostanoid receptors in the human trabecular meshwork (TM) and to determine their spatial distribution in relation to the contractile a-smooth muscle actin fibres.

Methods: Cryosections of human anterior segments were obtained from 17 different donors and immunostained with different EP receptor subtype specific antibodies. Double staining for the EP2 receptor and smooth muscle actin was carried out.

Macrophages play a role in the early phase of corneal allograft rejection in rats.

Background: Rat corneal allograft rejection is delayed by repeated local injection of liposomes filled with clodronate (dichloromethylene diphosphonate), which selectively deplete macrophages. Various administration schedules of liposomes were tested to determine the optimum schedule for prevention of graft rejection. Cell subpopulations in the anterior segment of the eye were studied at different time points after transplantation to assess the kinetics of the immune response.

Adhesion molecule expression in local-macrophage-depleted rats bearing orthotopic corneal allografts.

Background: Rejection of corneal grafts is dependent on influx of T lymphocytes and macrophages. This process is partly regulated by adhesion molecules. Earlier investigations showed that corneal graft rejection in rats could be prevented by clodronate liposomes that selectively eliminate macrophages.