The trabecular meshwork (TM) and ciliary body (CB) regulate aqueous humor dynamics and intraocular pressure (IOP), and TM/Schlemm's canal (SC) dysfunction underlies glaucoma. Here, we present a spatially resolved multi-omics atlas of human TM and CB, integrating snRNA-seq, scRNA-seq, and snATAC-seq from over one million cells and nuclei across 112 donors with Xenium spatial transcriptomics. We identified 9 major cell classes and 21 cell types, revealing heterogeneity, including undercharacterized fibroblast and epithelial subpopulations. Spatial mapping supported TM fibroblast zonation and CB epithelial organization. Regulatory analyses identified cell type-specific programs, including OTX/PAX networks in CB epithelium and SMAD3/TGF-β signaling in fibroblasts. Integration with glaucoma loci showed enrichment of non-coding variants in regulatory elements associated with POAG and PACG. Age- and ancestry-associated remodeling revealed divergent fibroblast aging with increased PIEZO1 , suggesting impaired outflow and elevated IOP. Together, this high-resolution atlas links cellular, regulatory, and genetic variation to anterior segment function and glaucoma susceptibility.
Du Lab
Stem Cell Biology & Ocular Regeneration Laboratory
“Stem cell technologies for a future without blindness.”
Research Area
Regenerate. Protect. Restore.
Our laboratory is focusing on developing innovative stem cell and cell-free therapies for ocular regeneration. We investigate different stem cell types, explore next-generation strategies using stem cell–derived secretomes and extracellular vesicles/exosomes, and combine bioengineering and cell biology to restore vision and protect ocular function. Our long-term goals are to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms that drive ocular diseases and therapeutic responses, develop novel therapies using our in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models, and translate our discoveries into clinically meaningful treatments. We are equally committed to training future scientists and clinician-scientists who will carry forward impactful research in vision science and related fields. Ultimately, our mission is to generate discoveries that prevent vision loss and restore sight — empowering patients to maintain independence and live healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Latest News
- Rong Du, Mohil Mishra, Rohit Sharma and Madison Clark Presented at 2026 USF Health Research Day
- A manuscript is published in IOVS
- Rong Du and Mohil Mishra are awarded ARVO Travel Grants
- Departmental first translational grandround
- Dr. Yiqin Du presented innovation at the Innovation Match
- We presented 6 posters at 2025 ARVO Conference
- Dr. Yiqin Du and Dr. Rong Du attended the Trabecular Meshwork Study Club, presented and established new collaborations
- NIH/NEI R01EY025643 Renewed
- NIH/NEI R01EY024642 Renewed
- New NIH/NEI R01EY036983 Awarded