Presence and distribution of fibronectin on the surface of implanted intraocular lenses in rabbits.

An immunohistochemical study was performed to observe cellular proliferation on the surface of implanted intraocular lenses (IOLs) in rabbit eyes. Rabbits were killed at intervals of 3 days and 1, 2, and 4 weeks after the operation. The IOLs were removed and examined by an immunoperoxidase staining method using antifibronectin (anti-FN) antibodies. The FN immunoreactivity was detected in macrophages and giant cells attached to the IOL surface. Prominent staining was observed in these cells 1 week after the operation, and staining for FN was less intense in the specimens obtained 2 and 4 weeks after implantation. These findings suggest that FN is produced by macrophages and giant cells on the IOL surface and may play an important role in cellular adhesion and motility. FN immunoreactivity decreased with time, which might be related to cellular activity.