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Posted on Mar 17, 2018, 3 a.m.
Two distinct groups of short molecules that regulate gene expression in the eyes of individuals with two different forms of glaucoma have been discovered as published in Human Molecular Genetics.
Differential expression of these microRNAs is important as it may lead to finding more genes that may be linked to glaucoma. Any information gained about how different types of glaucoma can damage optic nerves can be used as indicators for development of potential treatment interventions.
35 individuals participated in this study. MiRNA in the aqueous humor of 12 patients with exfoliation glaucoma and 12 with primary open angle glaucoma were examined. Researchers compared the miRNA profile of each of the 24 glaucoma patients with that of 11 individuals with healthy eyes for use as controls.
A significant difference in the expression of miR-125b-5p, miR-451a, and miR-302d-3p were found between primary open angle glaucoma and that of the controls. There was also significant differences in the expression of miR-320e, miR-3144-3p, miR-630, miR-122-5p, and miR-320a between exfoliation glaucoma and controls.
Many of these miRNAs mentioned have not been associated with glaucoma previously. Evidence has been found by the researchers that miR122-5p may target 3 genes which are known to be associated with glaucoma. Investigation of pathways of the other miRNAs showed that they are likely also involved with glaucoma. Investigations are underway to find out what these miRNAs do in the trabecular meshwork.
Materials provided by:
Oxford Academic
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