Understanding the Role of Yes-Associated Protein (YAP) Signaling in the Transformation of Lens Epithelial Cells (EMT) and Fibrosis.

Fibrotic cataracts, posterior capsular opacification (PCO), and anterior subcapsular cataracts (ASC) are mainly attributed to the transforming growth factor-β (TGFβ)-induced epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of lens epithelial cells (LECs). Previous investigations from our laboratory have shown the novel role of non-canonical TGFβ signaling in the progression of EMT in LECs. In this study, we have identified YAP as a critical signaling molecule involved in lens fibrosis.

Towards the Identification and Characterization of Putative Adult Human Lens Epithelial Stem Cells.

The anterior lens epithelium has the ability to differentiate into lens fibres throughout its life. The present study aims to identify and functionally characterize the adult stem cells in the human lens epithelium. Whole mounts of lens epithelium from donor eyes (normal/cataract) were immunostained for SOX2, gap junction protein alpha 1 (GJA1), PAX6, α, β and γ-crystallins, followed by a confocal analysis.