Semenogelins in the human retina: Differences in distribution and content between AMD and normal donor tissues

Summary, in English

The two cellular targets of interest in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) are the photoreceptors and the RPE. However, the mechanisms involved in AMD pathology are not yet fully understood. In the present report, we extend our previous studies on semenogelin proteins (Sgs) in normal human retina and compare these with the distribution in retinas from AMD donor eyes. Semenogelins I (SaI) and II (SaII) are the major structural protein components of semen coagulum, but have been recently found in non-genital tissues as well. Cryo and paraffin sections of human retina were processed for both immunofluorescence and DAB reaction with a specific antibody. The presence of Sal was analyzed in retina and RPE total lysates and SaI was detected by western blot in human retina and RPE. The intensity of immunoreactivity was significantly reduced in the AMD eyes. Sal is expressed in the normal human retina and in the retina of AMD donor eyes, where localization was detected in the photoreceptors and in a few ganglion cells. We find the distribution of Sal in the AMD retinas substantially lower than observed in normal retina. Sal localization to photoreceptors and the RPE suggests a possible function related to the ability of these cells to sequester zinc.

• Author: Vera L Bonilha; Mary E Rayborn; Karen G Shadrach; Yong Li; Åke Lundwall; Johan Malm; Joe G Hollyfield
• Department/s: Clinical Chemistry, Malmö
• Publishing year: 2008
• Language: English
• Pages: 150-156
• Publication/Series: Experimental Eye Research
• Volume: 86
• Issue: 1
• Links: http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.exer.2007.10.006
• Document type: Journal article
• Publisher: Elsevier
• Topic: Medicinal Chemistry
• Keywords: AMD; retina; immunohistochemistry; semenogelins; zinc
• Status: Published
• Research group: Clinical Chemistry, Malmö
• ISBN/ISSN/Other: ISSN: 0014-4835