Role of microRNAs in the trabecular meshwork.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are now recognized as important post-transcriptional regulators of gene expression. MiRNAs are known to modulate cellular functions relevant to the normal and pathological physiology of the trabecular meshwork (TM) such as cell contraction and extracellular matrix turnover. There is also increasing evidence supporting the role of miRNAs in the pathogenesis of multiple diseases, and their potential value as both biomarkers of disease and therapeutic targets. However, compared with other tissues, our current knowledge regarding the roles played by miRNAs in the TM is still very limited. Here, we review the information currently available about miRNAs in the TM and discuss the main challenges and opportunities to incorporate the rapid progress in miRNA biology to the understanding of the normal and pathological physiology of the TM, and to develop novel clinical applications for diagnosis and therapy of high intraocular pressure.