Extracellular Matrix in Human Trabecular Meshwork

ABSTRACT

This study was performed to evaluate the distribution of extracellular matrix in the normal human trabecular meshwork. The trabecular meshworks obtained from 5 enucleated eyes due to traumatic eye-ball rupture were frozen processed, stained with monoclonal antibodies for fibronectin and type IV collagen, and observed by fluorescent microscopy. The indirect immunofluorescent study showed strong positive reactions in the subendothelial basement membrane for fibronectin and type IV collagen and negative reaction in the central core of trabecular beam. These results suggest that fibronectin and type IV collagen distribute predominantly in the basement membrane of the trabecular beam.