Abstract

Human cornea-specific miRNA-184 is abundantly expressed in cornea and has an important role in maintaining its homeostasis. Its alteration has been reported in corneal diseases. purpose: Aim to identify its differential expression in fungal keratitis. Methods:Corneal swabs were collected at 1st visit, 1st review post antifungal therapy and cornea buttons after TPK based on culture positivity for fungus. Human donor corneas served as controls. Total RNA was isolated from swabs and corneal tissues. qPCR carried out in controls (n=10) and infected corneal tissue (n=10). Results:Differential expressed analysis showed miR-184 was significantly downregulated in 1st presentation, poor outcome samples and non responders. Donor corneas and responder review cases it was upregulated. Functional network analysis showed pathways significant to fungal keratitis. They require further validation in larger cohort. Conclusion:we showed miRNA-184 is involved in fungal keratitis pathogenesis and severity.

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