Spatial analysis and functional gene clustering between lens epithelium and fiber cells

Purpose. To identify genes important for maintaining the specialized functions of lens epithelial and fiber cells. Methods. The expression profiles of 22,215 genes between human lens epithelial and fiber cells were analyzed using oligonucleotide microarray hybridization and RT-PCR. Selected genes were functionally clustered using the EASE bioinformatics software package. Results. Analysis of microarray hybridizations revealed 1430 transcripts that were significantly increased and 901 transcripts that were significantly decreased. Microarray data was confirmed using RT-PCR on 11 randomly selected genes. Functional clustering of the identified gene expression patterns revealed altered gene expression in cellular pathways including oxidative stress, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. The methionine sulfoxide reductase class of enzymes were further analyzed and demonstrated to be expressed throughout the human body, indicating a significant protective role. Conclusions. These data reveal novel and previously identified gene expression differences that provide insight into those mechanisms that may be important for lens cell differentiation.