Network analysis reveals potential mechanisms that determine the cellular identity of keratinocytes and corneal epithelial cells through the Hox/Gtl2-Dio3 miRNA axis

The study explores the molecular mechanisms that define the cellular identity of keratinocytes and corneal epithelial cells, focusing on the Hox/Gtl2-Dio3 miRNA axis. It identifies 198 differentially expressed miRNAs between these cell types, with 132 miRNAs upregulated in keratinocytes and 66 in corneal epithelial cells. The research suggests that Hox proteins, which are largely silenced in corneal epithelial cells, play a crucial role in maintaining keratinocyte identity by regulating miRNA expression in the Gtl2-Dio3 region. These miRNAs influence key signaling pathways and transcription factors, such as Pax6, Otx2, and Foxc1, which are essential for corneal epithelial cells. The findings enhance understanding of the regulatory networks involved in corneal epithelial development and suggest potential therapeutic strategies for transdifferentiation.