The Role of Microtubules in Glaucomatous Schlemm’s Canal Mechanobiology

Project Summary

Intraocular pressure is largely controlled by tissues at or near Schlemm’s canal inner wall endothelium, where reduced fluid conductivity occurs in glaucoma. This project aims to investigate the impact of microtubules, crucial components of the cytoskeleton, on Schlemm’s canal cell mechanobiology and intraocular pressure, a key risk factor for glaucoma. This work will improve our understanding of Schlemm’s canal cell mechanobiology, creating a foundation for future studies investigating how microtubules in Schlemm’s canal cells influence outflow facility and ocular hypertension. Additionally, it will open avenues for both ex vivo and in vivo investigations of candidate drugs targeting the hydraulic conductivity of Schlemm’s canal inner wall cells as treatments for ocular hypertension in primary open-angle glaucoma.