Abstract 2275 Loss of PDGFRB/VEGFR2 perturbs cell-cell junction structure in retinal epithelial and retinoblastoma cells

Retinoblastoma (Rb) is a malignant intraocular tumor that develops primarily in children either due to hereditary or sporadic mutations. The progression of Rb can result in vitreous seeding, where large tumors develop within the vitreous humor of the eye in front of the retina, causing blindness. Understanding the signaling mechanisms which control Rb cell proliferation and migration is an important first step in developing targeted therapeutic strategies to prevent spread of the disease. Recent evidence has uncovered an important role for Platelet Derived Growth Factor Receptor (PDGFRB) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor (VEGFR2) in controlling Rb cell proliferation.