Identification of Differentially Expressed Genes in Keratoconus Epithelium Analyzed on Microarrays

Abstract

Keratoconus epithelium appears to be characterized by massive changes of the cytoskeleton, reduced extracellular matrix remodeling, altered transmembrane signaling, and modified cell-to-cell and cell-to-matrix interactions. Validation of gene expression with dChip analysis and real-time PCR indicates GeneChip to be a valid technique for investigation of epithelium from single dissected corneal samples. Association between alterations at RNA and protein levels was observed for some of the tested candidates.