Differential gene expression and pathway analysis by RNA sequencing in human OPTN(E50K) astrocytes

Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) degeneration is a primary characteristic of glaucoma, although non-cell autonomous mechanisms have been implicated in RGC dysfunction. Astrocytes closely associate with RGCs in the nerve fiber layer of the retina and optic nerve, where they can contribute to RGC neurodegeneration. However, the mechanisms by which astrocytes promote neurotoxicity and contribute to glaucoma remain unclear. Here we present data describing disease phenotypes in astrocytes and their ability to modulate RGC health. Overall design: Examination the differential gene expression from mRNA in human pluripotent stem cell-derived astrocytes underlying OPTN E50K mutation in comparison with wild-type OPTN