Neoplastic transformation of ciliary body epithelium is associated with loss of opticin expression.

BACKGROUND

Opticin is a recently discovered glycoprotein present predominantly in the vitreous humour. It is synthesised and secreted by the ciliary body epithelium (CBE) from the initiation of CBE development in the embryo, and production continues throughout life.

AIM

To determine whether a variety of ciliary body tumours synthesise opticin to characterise further its role in ciliary body health and disease.

METHODS

Immunohistochemistry was used to determine the distribution of opticin in normal human CBE, and in hyperplastic and neoplastic CBE lesions.

RESULTS

Opticin was immunolocalised to the basal cell surface and basement membrane material of the non-pigmented CBE in nine donor eyes as well as four hyperplastic lesions of the CBE (Fuchs's adenoma). By contrast, none of eight neoplastic lesions (two adenoma and six adenocarcinoma) of CBE stained for opticin.

CONCLUSION

The present series supports the theory that opticin is produced by the non-pigmented CBE throughout adult life. Loss of opticin expression by this tissue is associated with and could contribute towards neoplastic transformation.