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Expression and Function of ZEB1 in the Cornea.
Yingnan Zhang1,2, Xiao Liu3, Wei Liang4
1Department of Medicine, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY 40202, USA.
Cells
|April 30, 2021
Summary
ZEB1, a key factor in epithelial to mesenchymal transition, is crucial for corneal health. Its dysfunction causes genetic corneal disorders, offering therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- ZEB1 is a transcription factor regulating epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell differentiation, and transformation.
- ZEB1 is present in the corneal epithelium, stroma, and endothelium.
- ZEB1 mutations are associated with corneal dystrophies like keratoconus (KD), Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD), and posterior polymorphous corneal dystrophy (PPCD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of ZEB1 in corneal disorders.
- To understand how ZEB1 dysfunction contributes to corneal pathologies.
- To identify ZEB1 as a potential therapeutic target for corneal diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing evidence on ZEB1 function in the cornea.
- Analysis of genetic data linking ZEB1 mutations to corneal dystrophies.
- Review of studies on the cellular and molecular consequences of ZEB1 dysfunction in corneal cells.
Main Results:
- ZEB1 dysfunction impacts corneal stem cell homeostasis.
- ZEB1 dysfunction is linked to corneal cell apoptosis, stromal fibrosis, and angiogenesis.
- ZEB1 dysfunction can lead to squamous metaplasia in corneal tissues.
Conclusions:
- ZEB1 plays a critical role in maintaining corneal integrity.
- Understanding ZEB1's regulatory mechanisms in corneal diseases is vital.
- Targeting ZEB1 presents a promising therapeutic strategy for various ZEB1-related corneal disorders.
