Natalia Jaroszynska

Natalia is a PhD student studying a novel role of the matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in regulating Müller glia development.

As the retina develops, newly differentiated cells must migrate to where they will later function and adopt their specialised morphologies. Both processes require interactions with the neighbouring cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) that surrounds them. Müller glia are known to produce MMP2/9, enzymes that degrade specific ECM components and functional proteins however, the function of these enzymes in glial development remains poorly understood. By exploring the involvement of these enzymes during healthy retinal development, Natalia hopes to better understand how MMP dysregulation affects Müller glial health and potentially contributes to retinal degeneration.  

In her spare time, Natalia loves to draw, read, or watch a good movie- all of which she does with a big cup of tea in hand, because that is the only way!

natalia’s images