Analysis of CCR3 expression in corneal neovascularization in a murine model and human corneas.

Abstract The aim of this study was to examine the expression of the cytokines and chemokines receptor-3 (CCR3) molecules in endothelial cells and vascular structures in a murine model of corneal neovascularization and in samples of neovascularized human corneas. A simple immunofluorescence assay (red only) using the murine model showed a greater proportion and intensity of CCR3 in the epithelium and corneal subepithelial region in corneas with neovascularization. In the absence of vascularization, no CCR3 was found. Of the 32 tissues studied, eight were vascularized and 24 were avascular. In the human corneas, vascularized corneas showed positive labeling for CD31 in all the tissues analyzed, as well as positive labeling in all cases for CCR3. Therefore, all vascularized tissues showed positive coexpression of CCR3 and CD31, whereas none of the avascular corneas showed immunolabeling for either of these receptors.