Cell adhesion molecule expression in human lens epithelial cells after glucocorticoid exposure

Abstract

Purpose The aim of the study was to investigate changes in cell adhesion molecule expression in human lens epithelial cells subjected to glucocorticoids. Methods Human lens epithelial cells (HLEC) were exposed to dexamethasone for 24 hours. Cell morphology was examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), cell adhesion molecule expression was studied by western blot and immuno‐histochemistry. Results TEM showed multilayering of cells, vacuole formation and appearance of electron‐dense multivesicular bodies in HLEC exposed to 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 µM dexamethasone. Western blot and densitometry analysis revealed that α‐catenin, β‐catenin and GR expression were significantly decreased in dexamethasone exposed HLEC compared to unexposed cells. No significant change in N‐cadherin, γ‐catenin or vimentin expression between dexamethasone exposed and unexposed cells were present. Immunohistochemical analysis showed no significant change in antigen expression for any of the antigens examined. Conclusion The multilayering of HLEC seen with TEM, indicate defects in regulation of cell migration, which is supported by a decrease in cell adhesion molecule expression.