Abstract
Purpose:
MicroRNAs are a class of small non-coding RNAs that negatively regulate gene expression by binding to complimentary sequences of target messenger RNAs. Their roles in the cornea still remain largely unknown. Here we present our new findings on the anti-lymphangiogenesis function of microRNA-184 in the cornea during an inflammatory response in vivo.
Methods:
The murine in vivo suture placement model was used to induce corneal inflammatory lymphangiogenesis (LG). Mice were randomly selected to receive subconjunctival injections of either synthetic microRNA-184 mimics or control twice a week after the procedure. Whole-mount corneas were sampled and stained with LYVE-1, the lymphatic marker, for immunofluorescent microscopic assays. Results were analyzed by NIH-ImageJ software.
Results:
Compared to the control condition, the lymphatic invasion area was significantly reduced after the treatment of MicroRNA-184 mimics in the inflamed cornea.
Conclusions:
MicroRNA-184 suppresses corneal lymphangiogenesis. Its further investigation may provide novel therapies for lymphatic related disorders in the cornea, such as inflammation and transplant rejection.
Keywords: 609 neovascularization •
480 cornea: basic science •
555 immunomodulation/immunoregulation