Aniridia-related Keratopathy Relevant Cell Signaling Pathways in Human Fetal Corneas

BackgroundTo study aniridia-related keratopathy (ARK) relevant cell signaling pathways (Notch1, Wnt/{beta}-catenin, Sonic hedgehog (SHH) and mTOR) in normal human fetal corneas in comparison with normal human adult corneas. Results20 wg fetal and normal adult corneas showed similar staining patterns for Notch1, however 10-11 wg fetal corneas showed increased presence of Notch1. Numb and Dlk1 had an enhanced presence in the fetal corneas compared to the adult corneas. Fetal corneas showed stronger immunolabeling with antibodies against {beta}-catenin, Wnt5a and Wnt7a, Gli1, Hes1, p-rpS6, and mTOR when compared to the adult corneas. Gene expression of Notch1, Wnt5A, Wnt7A, {beta}-catenin, Hes1, mTOR and rps6 was higher in the 9-12 wg fetal corneas when compared to adult corneas. ConclusionsThe cell signaling pathway differences found between human fetal and adult corneas were similar to those previously found in ARK corneas with the exception of Notch1. Analogous profiles of cell signaling pathway activation between human fetal corneas and ARK corneas suggests that there is a less differentiated host milieu in ARK.