Effect of Beta Blocker on MUC2, MUC5AC Expression of the Cultured Human Conjunctival Cell

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the characteristics of MUC2, MUC5AC expression and the effect of beta-blocker on MUC2, MUC5AC expression in cultured human conjunctival cell. METHODS: Human conjunctival cell was cultured. After obtaining the monoclonality of conjunctival cells, secondary culture was done. Cultured conjunctival cell was treated with 0.2 nM timolol. Specimen was collected in 1, 3, 5, 10 days after the confluence of cultured conjunctival cells. To determine the effect of beta blocker, Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining, immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR, and flowcytometry were performed. RESULTS: Goblet cell was found in cultures of conjunctival cell. MUC5AC was detected in RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, and flowcytometry, but MUC2 was detected only in flowcytometry. Beta blocker didn't have significant effects on expression of MUC2 and MUC5AC in flowcytometry. CONCLUSIONS: MUC2 and MUC5AC were detected in cultured conjunctival cell. Beta blocker may not affect goblet cell. The other factor will be related to goblet cell suppressing the mucin in long standing antiglaucomatous medication.