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[Programmed cell death in the retina. Molecular mechanisms and therapeutic strategies]
Abstract:
The cellular suicide program (apoptosis) is important not only for many physiological processes spanning from embryonal development to aging but also for the pathogenesis and the course of a wide spectrum of diseases. Among these disorders are chronic neurodegenerative diseases including acquired and inherited degeneration of photoreceptors as well as retinal ganglion cells during retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration, optic neuritis, or glaucoma. In the following review we will address general pro- and antiapoptotic signal transduction cascades, their relevance for retinal degeneration focussing on retinal ganglion cells, and new therapeutic strategies evolving from these findings.
Insights
Cellular suicide (apoptosis) is crucial for development and disease, particularly in neurodegenerative disorders affecting the retina. This review explores apoptosis pathways and therapeutic strategies for retinal ganglion cell degeneration.
Area of Science:
- Cellular biology
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
Context:
- Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, plays a vital role in physiological processes and disease pathogenesis.
- Chronic neurodegenerative diseases, including those affecting the retina, involve complex apoptotic pathways.
Purpose:
- To review pro- and antiapoptotic signal transduction cascades.
- To focus on the relevance of these cascades in retinal ganglion cell degeneration.
- To discuss emerging therapeutic strategies for retinal degeneration.
Summary:
- This review examines the role of apoptosis in physiological and pathological processes, with a specific focus on neurodegenerative diseases of the retina.
- It details the signaling pathways that promote or inhibit apoptosis and their connection to retinal ganglion cell loss.
- Potential therapeutic interventions targeting these pathways are also discussed.
Impact:
- Provides a comprehensive overview of apoptosis in retinal degeneration.
- Highlights the importance of understanding apoptotic signaling for developing treatments for conditions like retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration, and glaucoma.
- Offers insights into novel therapeutic avenues for preserving vision.
