AIM: To investigate the expression and distribution of junction adhesion molecule-1(JAM-1) in human corneal epithelium and compare with those of occludin. METHODS: The expression in RNAs of JAM-1 and occludin was revealed by RT-PCR and the presence of protein was analyzed by the FACS method. Double immunofluorescent staining was used to determine the tissue distribution of JAM-1 and occludin in human corneal epithelium. RESULTS: The expression of JAM-1 and occludin was found in cultured human corneal epithelial cells. The double immunofluorescent study showed positive staining for JAM-1 at cell borders in the entire epithelial layer, while relatively extensive staining was seen in the superficial layer, where it coexisted with the expression of occludin. CONCLUSION: JAM-1 is expressed in entire layer of human corneal epithelium encircling the cells.