Discoveries in Retina Physiology and Disease Biology Using Single-Cell RNA Sequencing.

Abstract

The retina, a component of the central nervous system, is composed of six distinct neuronal types and various types of glial cells. A technique for single-cell transcriptome analysis called single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) can be employed to study the complicated dynamics of several types of retinal cells. It meticulously examines how various cell types express their genes, shedding light on all biological processes. scRNA-seq is an alternative to regular RNA-seq, which cannot identify cellular heterogeneity. Understanding retinal diseases requires research on retinal cell heterogeneity. The identification of novel cell subpopulations can provide information about disease occurrence and progression as well as the specific biological functions of particular cells. We currently have a better understanding of the interactions among the brain, the retina, and its visual pathways thanks to the use of scRNA-seq to examine retinal development and disease pathogenesis. Additionally, this technology offers fresh perspectives on the sensitivity and molecular basis of cell subtypes linked to retinal diseases. Thanks to scRNA-seq technology, we now have a better understanding of the most recent developments and difficulties in retinal development and disorders. We believe that scRNA-seq is an important tool for developing cutting-edge treatments for retinal diseases. This paper presents a systematic review of the history of sRNA-seq technology development and provides an overview of the unique subtypes of retinal cells and the specific gene markers this technology identifies.