This proposal delves into the critical biological processes of differentiation, apoptosis, and proliferation, which play pivotal roles in the development of all mammals. These processes are essential for the proper growth, function, and shape of organisms. The lens of the mammalian eye serves as a specialized model for understanding differentiation, particularly the transition from monolayered epithelial cells to lens fiber cells, which is crucial for maintaining healthy vision. Disruptions in this differentiation process can lead to eye conditions such as cataracts, anterior segment dysgenesis, and microphthalmia. The proposal highlights the use of vitreous and culture media to enable the in vitro study of lens epithelial cells, making it a more accessible and cost-effective research approach. It also outlines an experiment that aims to investigate the effects of culture time and media type on proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis in lens explants. Furthermore, it seeks to evaluate the resemblance of in vitro lens fiber cell differentiation to in vivo developmental stages, using RNAseq data analysis. This research has the potential to deepen our understanding of cellular dynamics in the lens and its relevance to mammalian eye development, contributing to advancements in eye health and vision care.
Author(s): Allison Kneller, Anil Upreti, Michael Robinson, Ph.D
Advisor(s): Michael L. Robinson, Biology
Anil Upreti, Biology
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