Expression and characterization of the catalytic subunit of telomerase in normal and cataractous canine lens epithelial cells.

Abstract

The localization of TERT in normal LEC corresponded with the LEC's regional functions. There was more cytoplasmic TERT in the central region that corresponds with the need for inhibited apoptosis and for proliferative capabilities; there was more nuclear TERT in the germinal and equatorial regions corresponding with the need for proliferative capabilities. In addition, cataractous LEC demonstrated increased TERT protein and increased TERT and TR mRNA expression than normal LEC corresponding with their increased proliferative potential. However, the telomerase coactivators, p23 and hsp90, are not overexpressed and do not associate with TERT in cataractous LEC, suggesting that telomerase regulation in cataractous LEC, a somatic cell type, differs from that in neoplastic cells.