Shunbin Xu

Shunbin Xu is an Associate Professor at Wayne State University School of Medicine, holding dual appointments in the Department of Ophthalmology/Kresge Eye Institute and Department of Anatomy & Cell Biology. His research focuses on the roles of microRNAs (miRNAs) in ocular development and diseases, particularly the miR-183/96/182 cluster—a key regulator of retinal function, corneal immunity, and neuroimmune interactions.

• Key Appointments:
  • 2004–2013: Assistant Professor at Rush University Medical Center
  • 2013–Present: Associate Professor at Wayne State University (Tenured since 2019)

Research Themes:

• Demonstrated the miR-183/96/182 cluster as a central node in retinal degeneration, innate immunity, and neuroimmune crosstalk
• Identified roles in Pseudomonas aeruginosa keratitis, diabetic retinopathy, and sensory-neuroimmune pathway interactions
• Developed miRNA-based therapeutic strategies for ocular inflammation and degenerative diseases

Scientific Support:

• Current NIH/NEI R01 Grants
• Past funding from ADA, JDRF, Glaucoma Research Foundation, and American Cancer Society

Collaborations: Partnered with institutions like EyeGene (NIH) to identify human miRNA cluster mutations linked to syndromic retinal dystrophies.