Robertson 2023 Abstract IOC160

Robertson DM (2023) Dysregulation of mitochondrial homeostasis in ocular disease. Mitochondr Physiol Network 28.01.

Link: IOC160

Robertson Danielle M (2023)

Event: IOC160

In the eye, it is now widely recognized that dysregulation of mitochondrial homeostasis is a key pathophysiological event in many ocular diseases. The ocular surface is comprised of two contiguous epithelia that cover the anterior most surface of the eye. These include the corneal and conjunctival epithelium. Together, they form the stratified epithelial surface that functions to prevent pathogen invasion and, with respect to the corneal epithelia, is critical for the refraction of light. Different types of stress negatively impact the ocular surface. These include hyperglycemic stress (as seen in diabetes), hyperosmolar stress (as seen in dry eye disease), inflammatory stress, drug and pollutant toxicity, contact lens wear, and stress-induced by host-pathogen interactions. To investigate these effects on the corneal and conjunctival epithelium, we are focusing on changes in mitochondrial and metabolic homeostasis, including mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy. To investigate changes in cell metabolism, we have coupled metabolomics with real time Seahorse metabolic flux analysis. In this presentation, we will present our current state of knowledge on metabolic changes that occur during hyperosmolar stress, inflammatory stress, and infection. For the latter, we will discuss changes in metabolism that occur during infection by the opportunistic gram-negative pathogen, Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Our overall goal is to identify how specific metabolic pathways are impacted in response to pathological stress and ultimately develop novel therapeutics designed to enhance mitochondrial metabolism and promote disease resolution.

• Bioblast editor: Plangger M

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Affiliations

Department of Ophthalmology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA