Inhibition of lysosomal degradation in retinal pigment epithelium cells induces exocytosis of phagocytic residual material at the basolateral plasma membrane

Swaantje Peters, Eva Reinthal, Petra Blitgen-Heinecke, Karl-Ulrich Bartz-Schmidt, Ulrich Schraermeyer

Abstract

PURPOSE: To analyze chloroquine-induced morphological changes in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and Bruch's membrane (BM).

METHODS: Retina-choroid complexes of chloroquine-treated Long-Evans rats were analyzed by electron microscopy.

RESULTS: Intercellular spaces between the RPE cells and BM were enlarged. Residual material from phagosomes was released into these enlarged spaces. Debris accumulated within BM and encircled choriocapillaris endothelial cells.

CONCLUSION: There is a release of undegraded phagocytic material (rod outer segments) into the extracellular space between BM and RPE cells, following inhibition of lysosomal degradation. Electron-dense deposits in BM and choriocapillaris may lead to reduced oxygen and nutrition flow.

Original languageEnglish
JournalOphthalmic Research
Volume38
Issue number2
Pages (from-to)83-8
Number of pages6
ISSN0030-3747
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2006
Externally publishedYes

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