Retinal Ganglion Cell Axon Degeneration in a 3D Microfluidic Hydrogel Model

Project Summary

Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) axons traversing the optic nerve head are highly susceptible to glaucomatous damage, yet the link between optic nerve head biomechanics and RGC axonal degeneration remains poorly understood. To address this, researchers will implement 3D platforms integrating microfluidics and hydrogels with tunable stiffness to model biomechanical aspects affecting RGC axons in the optic nerve head.

Upon completion, the study will uncover insights into RGC axonal dysfunction due to biomechanical changes in context of human tissue using a stem cell model. By targeting the biomechanical aspects of the lamina cribrosa, the study could lead to novel therapeutic interventions beyond traditional approaches regulating intraocular pressure. Incorporating hydrogels in the microfluidic system allows study of complex cellular interactions in a 3D microenvironment, applicable to other age-associated optic nerve degeneration. This offers hope for more effective glaucoma treatments.