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. Several microRNAs have been identified in the cornea; however, their roles are widely unknown. Here we focused on the specific role of microRNA-184 in corneal lymphangiogenesis. We also tested whether this microRNA could be used as an anti-lymphangiogenic molecule.
Methods: :
The murine in vivo suture placement model was used to induce corneal inflammatory lymphangiogenesis (LG). Changes in corneal microRNA-184 expression levels were measured by RT-PCR. Additionally, microRNA-184 precursor molecules were transfected into human lymphatic endothelial cells (LEC) in vitro and their effects on LEC viability and tube formation were analyzed.
Results: :
The expression of microRNA-184 was significantly decreased in inflamed and lymphatic-rich corneas. In addition, microRNA-184 transfection into LECs induces a significant suppression of cell viability and tube formation.
Conclusions: :
MicroRNA-184 may function as an endogenous factor that maintains the alymphatic feature of the normal cornea. It could potentially be used as an extrinsic inhibitor of lymphatic endothelial cells. This study will shed some light on the physiological and pathological roles of microRNA-184 as well as the therapeutic implications for corneal inflammation and transplant rejection.
Keywords: neovascularization • cornea: basic science • cornea: epithelium