Photoreceptor-specific protein expression of mouse retina in organ culture and retardation of rd degeneration in vitro by a combination of basic fibroblast and nerve growth factors.

Previously we have presented the morphological features of a neonatal mouse retinal explant kept in culture for 3 to 4 weeks. To further evaluate the organotypic parameters of the tissue we have examined the presence of opsin, S-antigen, and interphotoreceptor retinoid-binding protein (IRBP) in the same experimental paradigm, using light microscopic immunocytochemistry. In vitro, opsin and S-antigen staining is found in photoreceptor somata from genetically normal explants and those derived from mice with the rd or the rds mutation. When present, inner and outer segments label more intensely. No IRBP staining has been found in cell bodies of any genotype. However, some labeling is found in the plexiform layers and in the inner segments. The results indicate that photoreceptor proteins are continuously produced in vitro. This further establishes the organotypic nature of the retinal explant in culture. The administration of growth factors to these explants has been investigated. Neither basic fibroblast growth factor nor nerve growth factor alone has affected the explants phenotype. However, the combination of these proteins has significantly retarded rd cell loss in vitro.