Authors: Wang Wenqiu, Lu Fengqing, Wang Hong, Sun Xiaodong
Abstract [Download PDF] [Read Full Text]
Background
The pathology of choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is not clear.CD147 plays a critical role in angiogenesis through activating matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and degradation of extracellular matrix (ECM). However, the study of CD147 in CNV is rare.
Objective
This study was to investigate the expression of CD147 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in laser-induced rat CNV model.
Methods
Thirty clean BN rats were divided into normal control group (six rats) and laser group (24 rats) according to the random number table.CNV was induced on laser photocoagulation group rats using 532 nm multiple-wave length photocoagulation.The development of CNV was followed up by fundus fluorescence angiography (FFA) on 1 day, 7, 14 and 21 days post-photocoagulation.The expression of CD147 protein in retinal pigment epithelium(RPE)-choroid-sclera complex was examined by Western blot in normal control group and 1 day, 7, 14, 21 days post-photocoagulation group.The vitreous VEGF concentrations of those groups were detected by ELISA.
Results
Disk like fluorescein leakage was detected on 7 days after photocoagulation, and CNV was formed on 14 days after photocoagulation.The expressions of CD147 protein were 1.00±0.43, 0.97±0.53, 0.99±0.45, 1.56±0.67 and 2.27±0.54, and the concentrations of vitreous VEGF were (72.96±29.95), (79.36±10.46), (103.82±32.94), (166.05±21.54) and (195.64±39.90)pg/ml in normal control group and 1 day, 7, 14, 21 days post-photocoagulation group, with significant differences among the groups (CD147: F=10.95, P<0.01; VEGF: F=304.50, P<0.01). The expressions of CD147 and VEGF were significantly higher in the 14, 21 days post-photocoagulation groups than those in the normal control group (all at P<0.05).
Conclusions
The expression of CD147 increases as the induction of CNV, in accordance with the expression of VEGF.CD147 may play an important role in the early development of CNV.