Role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in ocular response to injury

MiRNAs are a class of small, non-coding RNAs that fine-tune target gene expression.  MiRNAs usually reduce gene expression by base pairing or binding with target messenger RNAs (mRNAs) to suppress protein production and/or increase mRNA decay.  Individual miRNAs can target several to hundreds of distinct mRNAs and therefore can significantly regulate cell physiology.  Altered miRNA expression patterns are also potential biomarkers of disease. Additionally, specific miRNAs and miRNA inhibitors (antagomirs) may be novel therapeutic options. We study expression level changes and function of miRNAs in TED and PVR in order to better understand their role in pathophysiology and identify miRNA biomarkers of disease.

« back to all projects