Phagocytosis by Human Embryonic Stem Cell-Derived RPE Cells
Author Information
Author(s): Amanda-Jayne Carr, Anthony Vugler, Jean Lawrence, Chen Li, Ahmed Ahmado, Fred K. Chen, Ma’ayan Semo, Carlos Gias, Lyndon da Cruz, Harry D. Moore, James Walsh, Peter J. Coffey
Primary Institution: Institute of Ophthalmology, University College London
Hypothesis
Can retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells derived from human embryonic stem cells (HESC) phagocytose photoreceptor outer segments and undergo morphological changes when exposed to human retina?
Conclusion
HESC-derived RPE cells can phagocytose photoreceptor outer segments and exhibit functional characteristics similar to mature RPE cells.
Supporting Evidence
- HESC-derived RPE cells can phagocytose isolated porcine outer segments.
- Pre-incubation with MERTK antibodies blocked phagocytosis of outer segments.
- HESC-RPE cells showed morphological changes after co-culture with human retina.
Takeaway
Scientists found that special cells made from human stem cells can eat tiny parts of eye cells, which is important for keeping our vision healthy.
Methodology
HESC-RPE cells were derived and tested for their ability to phagocytose fluorescently labeled outer segments from porcine and human retina using various assays including confocal microscopy and electron microscopy.
Limitations
The study was limited by the availability of human retinal tissue for experiments.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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