Semaphorin 3F forms an anti-angiogenic barrier in outer retina

FEBS Lett. 2013 Jun 5;587(11):1650-5. doi: 10.1016/j.febslet.2013.04.008. Epub 2013 Apr 18.

Abstract

Semaphorins are known modulators of axonal sprouting and angiogenesis. In the retina, we identified a distinct and almost exclusive expression of Semaphorin 3F in the outer layers. Interestingly, these outer retinal layers are physiologically avascular. Using functional in vitro models, we report potent anti-angiogenic effects of Semaphorin 3F on both retinal and choroidal vessels. In addition, human retinal pigment epithelium isolates from patients with pathologic neovascularization of the outer retina displayed reduced Semaphorin 3F expression in 10 out of 15 patients. Combined, these results elucidate a functional role for Semaphorin 3F in the outer retina where it acts as a vasorepulsive cue to maintain physiologic avascularity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Angiostatic Proteins / metabolism*
  • Animals
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Humans
  • Membrane Proteins / metabolism*
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred C57BL
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins / metabolism*
  • Retinal Photoreceptor Cell Outer Segment / metabolism*
  • Retinal Pigment Epithelium / metabolism
  • Retinal Vessels / metabolism
  • Spheroids, Cellular
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / physiology

Substances

  • Angiostatic Proteins
  • Membrane Proteins
  • Nerve Tissue Proteins
  • SEMA3F protein, human
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A