Reporter LacZ gene transfer into cultured ocular cells of human eyes in vitro

Objective To investigate whether a reporter LacZ gene could be transferred into cultured ocular cells of human eyes in vitro. Methods Fibroblast cells of Tenon's capsule, trabecular meshwork cells, and muscle celms in the ciliary body of human eyes were cultured and the pcDNA 3-LacZ gene was transferred into these cells using a cationic liposome deli very system. The cells were subsequently fixed with 4% paraformaldehyde, mi xed with X-gal, then observed under a microscope. Results Blue stain was seen in the cytoplasm of the cultured cells under th e microscope, demonstrating the successful transfer of the LacZ gene into t hese cells. Conclusion Reporter LacZ gene was easily transferred into the cultured ocul ar cells in vitro. This provides insights into the transfer of the genes in to these cells to study the pathogenesis and therapy of glaucoma.