Distribution of Proteins Providing Homeostasis of Iron Ions in Bovine Retina

Distribution of proteins providing homeostasis of iron ions in bovine retina was studied by methods of indirect immunohistochemistry, which allowed detection of localization of transferrin, ferritin, and transferrin receptor. In bovine retina, transferrin is revealed in the region of outer and inner segments of photoreceptors and in the external plexiform layer. Distributions of ferritin and transferrin receptor are identical; they are revealed in all layers of retina, the maximal immunoreactivity against these proteins is found in pigment epithelium, in the region of inner segments of photoreceptors, in the external plexiform and internal nuclear layers. The obtained results are discussed from the point of view of mechanisms providing with iron the cells of the outer and inner retina.