Mechanisms involved in retinal pigment epithelial cell chemotaxis
P. A. Campochiaro and B. M. Glaser
Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cell chemotaxis may play an important role
in proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR). Fibronectin and platelet-derived
growth factor are chemoattractants for RPE cells. In this study, we used
these chemoattractants to examine mechanisms involved in RPE cell
chemotaxis. Our results demonstrate that inhibition of RNA and protein
synthesis, but not DNA synthesis, are associated with reduced chemotaxis.
Microtubules and microfilaments are involved since cytochalasin B and
colchicine are potent inhibitors of RPE cell migration. Dexamethasone, to
which a beneficial effect has been attributed in an animal model of PVR,
had no effect on RPE cell migration. Information concerning mechanisms
involved in RPE cell migration may help to explore new avenues of treatment
in PVR.
