MTOR-independent induction of autophagy in trabecular meshwork cells subjected to biaxial stretch.

ABSTRACT: The trabecular meshwork (TM) is part of a complex tissue that controls the exit of aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye, and therefore helps maintaining intraocular pressure (IOP). Because of variations in IOP with changing pressure gradients and fluid movement, the TM and its contained cells undergo morphological deformations, resulting in distention and stretching. It is therefore essential for TM cells to continuously detect and respond to these mechanical forces and adapt their physiology to maintain proper cellular function and protect against mechanical injury. Here we demonstrate the activation of autophagy, a pro-survival pathway responsible for the degradation of long-lived proteins and organelles, in TM cells when subjected to biaxial static stretch (20% elongation)

SUBMITTER: Porter KM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3988584 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature