Role of a Key Gene, Angptl7, in Steroid-Induced Glaucoma

This study is designed to understand the role of Angptl7 in cell signaling and cell-cell communications of outflow tissues that control intraocular pressure, particularly in the presence of steroids.

Glucocorticoids are widely used anti-inflammatory drugs that treat a variety diseases, but long-term use often results in elevated eye pressure that can lead to glaucoma. Using the most advanced research technologies, the present project is designed to understand how ANGPTL7, a glaucoma risk gene, is involved in elevating eye pressure after glucocorticoid treatment.

The combination of our novel mouse model of high intraocular pressure using dexamethasone nanoparticles, our cutting-edge method for isolating single, living cells from the outflow tissues in mice and powerful single cell sequencing technology enables us to tackle unanswered questions about the underlying causes of steroid-induced glaucoma.

This study will provide a better understanding of the underlying causes for steroid-induced glaucoma and protection afforded by Angptl7 will enable treatment strategies specific for this prevalent disease.