Abstract :
Introduction Fibronectin is an extracellular matrix glycoprotein that binds to membrane receptor integrin and extracellular matrix components such as collagen, fibrin, and heparin sulfate proteoglycans. It plays a major role in cell adhesion, growth, migration, and differentiation, and it is important for processes such as wound healing and embryonic development. Altered fibronectin expression, degradation, and organization have been associated with a number of pathologies including cancer and fibrosis. Aim of the study This study was conducted to evaluate the distribution of fibronectin in the ocular tissues of adult male albino rat. Materials and methods Eyeballs of 10 adult male albino rats were enucleated and processed for immunohistochemical localization of fibronectin in different ocular tissues using a light microscope. Results Fibronectin showed wide distribution in the ocular tissues of adult male albino rat. The immunoreactivity was apparent in the basement membrane of the cornea, corneoscleral junction and epithelium of the iris, and ciliary processes. Str omaof cornea, sclera, and middle layer of the eyeball revealed strong positive immunoreaction. The lens displayed fibronectin in the capsule, whereas retina revealed its immunoreactivity in the outer and inner plexiform layers and at the internal limiting membrane. Conclusion Fibronectin displayed wide distribution in the ocular tissues of adult male albino rat. It is strongly expressed in the sclera, followed by ciliary body, choroid, iris, cornea, conjunctiva, retina, and finally lens capsule. The clinical relevance of the different distributions of fibronectin may be a subject of further researches.
