MicroRNA Expression in Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome with the Use of Next-Generation Sequencing

Pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PEX) is a clinically important and biologically intriguing systemic disorder of the extracellular matrix. PEX etiopathogenesis was proved to be connected to multiple genes and other factors. However, the exact etiopathogenesis remains unknown. The aim of this study was to analyze miR expression in PEX using next-generation sequencing. An attempt was made to find the most commonly occurring miR in PEX, to evaluate miR that may have an essential role in the etiology of PEX syndrome. In addition, the correlation between the selected miRs' expressions and age was investigated. Anterior lens capsules were obtained during cataract surgery. Next-generation sequencing was conducted on Illumina MiSeq. The average age was 68.2 years (with standard deviation +/- 6.92 years). Ten miRs with the highest level of expression represent approx. 95% of all readings. Four miRs with statistically significant differences in expression between groups have been distinguished: miR-671-3p, miR374a-5p, miR-1307-5p and miR-708-5p. The relationship between the most frequent miRs' expressions and age has been evaluated and no correlation has been detected. In view of the above, it seems reasonable to examine the influence of miR on the biogenesis of PEX. Further studies on miR-671-3p, miR-374a-5p, miR-1307-5p and miR-708-5p expression in PEX are needed.