Regulation of ABC Transporters and Glaucoma: New Ideas

Abstract

 

Purpose:

 

ATP–dependent, ABC family transporters (multidrug transporters) are regulated in part by the interaction of hyaluronic acid, its receptor CD44, and activation of ErbB2. Notably, we have reported that hyaluronic acid is decreased in primary open–angle glaucoma, CD44 is released as soluble CD44, and soluble CD44 down–regulates ErbB2. Recently, the prototype ABC transporter, p–glycoprotein (MDR1, ABCB1) was shown to be defective in transporting ß–amyloid from brain interstitial fluid.

 

Methods:

 

We used OMIM to search for glaucoma chromosome regions and reported literature on glaucoma linkages in order to correlate these glaucoma loci to 48 ABC transporters.

 

Results:

 

To date we have noted the association of 14 ABC genes to 8 glaucoma loci.  

 

Conclusions:

 

ABC genes play multiple roles in protecting cells from zenobiotics, transporting compounds, and modifying cell responses to stress. Multiple members of the ABC gene family are associated with previously described chromosomal regions linked to glaucoma. Further genetic characterization of ABC transporters may lead to insight into their roles in glaucoma.

 

Keywords: genetics • gene modifiers • gene mapping