We searched for candidate microRNAs (miRNAs) involved in mice rod photoreceptor and Müller glia (MG) specification.
We compared miRNA expression microarrays from embryonic retinal progenitors (RPCs), CD73+ rods and MG primary cultures.
We found divergence between CD73+ and MG-specific miRNA signatures and preferentially expressed miRNAs were validated.
We revealed miRNA expression changes through MG dedifferentiation, early and late commitment to a rod-like phenotype.
miR-124 and 29a are highlighted as potential targets to exploit the silent neuronal differentiation capacity of MG in mammals.