Physiological function of myocilin and its role in the pathogenesis of glaucoma in the trabecular meshwork (Review)

Int J Mol Med. 2019 Feb;43(2):671-681. doi: 10.3892/ijmm.2018.3992. Epub 2018 Nov 20.

Abstract

Myocilin is highly expressed in the trabecular meshwork (TM), which plays an important role in the regulation of intraocular pressure (IOP). Myocilin abnormalities may cause dysfunction of the TM, potentially leading to increased IOP. High IOP is a well‑known primary risk factor for glaucoma. Myocilin mutations are common among glaucoma patients, and they are implicated in juvenile‑onset open‑angle glaucoma (JOAG) and adult‑onset primary open‑angle glaucoma (POAG). Aggregation of aberrant mutant myocilins is closely associated with glaucoma pathogenesis. The aim of the present review was to discuss the recent findings regarding the major physiological functions of myocilin, such as intra‑ and extracellular proteolytic processes. We also aimed to discuss the risk factors associated with myocilin and the development of glaucoma, such as misfolded/mutant myocilin, imbalance of myocilin and extracellular proteins, and instability of mutant myocilin associated with temperature. Finally, we further outlined certain issues that are yet to be resolved, which may represent the basis for future studies on the role of myocilin in glaucoma.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cytoskeletal Proteins / chemistry
  • Cytoskeletal Proteins / genetics
  • Cytoskeletal Proteins / physiology*
  • Eye Proteins / chemistry
  • Eye Proteins / genetics
  • Eye Proteins / physiology*
  • Glaucoma, Open-Angle / etiology*
  • Glaucoma, Open-Angle / physiopathology
  • Glycoproteins / chemistry
  • Glycoproteins / genetics
  • Glycoproteins / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Intraocular Pressure
  • Mutation
  • Protein Folding
  • Proteolysis
  • Trabecular Meshwork / metabolism*
  • Trabecular Meshwork / physiopathology

Substances

  • Cytoskeletal Proteins
  • Eye Proteins
  • Glycoproteins
  • trabecular meshwork-induced glucocorticoid response protein