The mammalian lens consists of two cell types, lens fiber cells which form the bulk of the lens, and a monolayer of epithelial cells that cover the anterior surface of the fibers. Lens epithelial cells are responsible for homeostasis regulation of the lens, including electrolyte and fluid transport [1]. Under normal development, lens epithelial cells progressively differentiate and mature. Lens epithelial cells then migrate from the equatorial region into the interior of the lens to produce transparent crystallins, elongate to form lens fiber cells, and eventually lose their nuclei and other organelles [2]. Studies have shown that lens epithelial cell differentiation and lens polarization are regulated by growth factors present in the ocular fluids [3], such as epidermal growth factor, basic fibroblast growth factor, insulin growth factor, and insulin [4].
Recommended Medium
It is recommended to use Epithelial Cell Medium-animal (EpiCM-a, Cat. No. SC4131) for the culturing of RLEpiC in vitro.
Product Use
This product is for research use only. It is not approved for use in humans, animals, or in vitro diagnostic procedures.
Storage
Upon receiving, directly and immediately transfer the cells from dry ice to liquid nitrogen and keep the cells in liquid nitrogen until they are needed for experiments.
Shipping
Dry ice
Warranty
Cells are only warranted if ScienCell media and reagents are used and the recommended protocols are followed.
References
[1]. Wagner, L. M. and Takemoto, D. J. (2001) PKCa and PKC? overexpression causes lentoid body formation in the N/N 1003A rabbit lens epithelial cell line. Molecular Vision 7: 138-144.
[2]. Lang, R. A. (1999) Which factors stimulate lens fiber cell differentiation in vivo? Invest Opthalmol Vis Sci 40:3075-8.
[3]. Leenders, W. P., van Genesen, S. T., Schoenmakers, J. G., van Zoelen, E. J., Lubsen, N. H. (1997) Synergism between temporally distinct growth factors: bFGF, insulin and lens cell differentiation. Mech Dev. 67:193-201.(1999)