INTEGRINS IN HUMAN ANTERIOR-CHAMBER ANGLE

Background: Integrins, which are composed of an alpha and beta subunit , are capable of binding to a number of extracellular matrix proteins and, hence, affect cell adhesion and proliferation. Methods: The distr ibution of the integrin beta (beta(1), beta(3)-beta(5)) and alpha (alp ha(1-6) and alpha(v)) subunits in human anterior chamber angle was stu died in eyes from subjects aged 9 months to 81 years using the indirec t immunofluorescence technique. Results: Immunoreaction for the beta(1 ) subunit was found throughout the trabecular meshwork (TM), in the cr ibriform layer, and in the endothelial lining of Schlemm's canal (SC). Labelling for the alpha(3) subunit was found in the TM and the cribri form layer only. In infant eyes the alpha(5) subunit was present in al l three areas with the highest concentration in the cribriform layer, whereas no reaction was observed in adult eyes. The alpha(6) subunit w as localized to the endothelium of SC only. Immunoreaction for the alp ha(v) subunit was present in the TM and the cribriform layer of infant s and young adults. Conclusion: The present results suggest the presen ce of several integrin heterodimers, acting as potential receptors for laminin, collagen, fibronectin, and vitronectin, in the anterior cham ber angle.