Transcriptional factors associated with epithelial-mesenchymal transition in choroidal neovascularization
2011

Transcriptional Factors in Eye Disease

Sample size: 12 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Hirasawa Manabu, Noda Kousuke, Noda Setsuko, Suzuki Misa, Ozawa Yoko, Shinoda Kei, Inoue Makoto, Ogawa Yoko, Tsubota Kazuo, Ishida Susumu

Primary Institution: Keio University School of Medicine

Hypothesis

EMT of RPE cells is involved in the fibrotic scar formation in AMD.

Conclusion

Snail is a major transcriptional factor for EMT changes of RPE cells in human CNV.

Supporting Evidence

  • 91.6% of CNV tissues showed Snail localized in RPE cell nuclei.
  • Snail was co-localized with α-smooth muscle antigen in RPE cells.
  • TGF-β and VEGF stimulation increased Snail expression in cultured RPE cells.

Takeaway

This study found that a protein called Snail helps eye cells change shape and contribute to scarring in a common eye disease.

Methodology

The study used tissue samples from patients and cultured RPE cells to analyze the expression of EMT-related transcriptional factors.

Participant Demographics

12 patients with AMD, 8 males and 4 females, mean age 67.3 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication