Keratocan Expression Is Increased in the Stroma of Keratoconus Corneas

Abstract

Keratocan expression in the stoma was increased in keratoconus corneas. This up-regulation appears to be keratoconus specific. Keratocan is one of the three keratan sulfate proteoglycans in the cornea speculated to be important for structure of the stromal matrix and maintenance of corneal transparency. The overexpressed keratocan may conceivably alter the fibrillogenesis in the stroma, leading to structural defects and contributing to the development of keratoconus.