Ultrastructural localization of hydrogen peroxide in experimental autoimmune uveitis

Curr Eye Res. 1992 Oct;11(10):955-61. doi: 10.3109/02713689209033493.

Abstract

One of the most prominent features of S-antigen induced uveitis is the massive infiltration of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMNs) and mononuclear cells in the ocular tissues and fluids. These inflammatory cells generate reactive oxygen metabolites as microbicidal agents and release these oxidants into the surrounding tissues. Using the cerium perhydroxide method, we have localized subcellular hydrogen peroxide in various inflamed ocular tissues. Most notably, the positive electron-dense granules were seen in the plasma membranes of PMNs that were infiltrating in the retina and uvea. These deposits were noted also in PMNs located within the extravascular spaces. For the intravascular PMNs, the positive reaction products were seen in much lower concentrations. A direct demonstration of substantial concentrations of hydrogen peroxide in experimental autoimmune uveitis, therefore, suggests the possibility that this reactive metabolite is an inflammatory mediator in this condition.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigens
  • Arrestin
  • Autoimmune Diseases / etiology
  • Autoimmune Diseases / metabolism*
  • Cell Membrane / metabolism
  • Cell Membrane / ultrastructure
  • Cerium
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Eye Proteins
  • Female
  • Hydrogen Peroxide / metabolism*
  • Hydroxides
  • Neutrophils / metabolism
  • Neutrophils / ultrastructure
  • Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
  • Rats
  • Rats, Inbred Lew
  • Retinal Vessels / metabolism
  • Retinal Vessels / ultrastructure
  • Uveitis / etiology
  • Uveitis / metabolism*

Substances

  • Antigens
  • Arrestin
  • Eye Proteins
  • Hydroxides
  • Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
  • Cerium
  • cerium hydroxide
  • Hydrogen Peroxide