2024년 08월 26일 (월) 오후 4시

연사: 건국대 의대 안과 정혜원 교수님

제목: Targeting RPE Cellular Senescence
초록: Cellular senescence of RPE cells has been recognized as a crucial element in the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Previous research conducted by our lab has shown that senescent RPE cells are responsible for AMD, particularly in AMD mouse models and naturally aged mice. We provided the first proof-of-concept that senescent RPE cells could be the cause or pathogenic mechanism of AMD by utilizing senolytics, which alleviated retinal degeneration. Our lab has successfully developed a unique technology to isolate and pool RPE cells to secure a sufficient number for single-cell RNA sequencing, although the total number of RPE cells is relatively small compared to the number of retinal cells or cells in the choroid. We used methods to eliminate senescent RPE cells using known senolytics such as Nutlin-3a or ABT-263, and strategies specifically targeting the mitochondria of senescent RPE cells. As a result, we observed both functional and histological improvements in senescent RPE and AMD mouse models. In addition to our work with senolytics, recent studies in our lab have focused on reversing the aging process in RPE cells by overexpressing specific transcription factors. By enhancing the expression of these key factors, we have observed promising results in rejuvenating aged RPE cells, restoring their function and mitigating signs of senescence.