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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 3, 2026

Retinal Pathophysiological Evaluation in a Rat Model

Retinal Pathophysiological Evaluation in a Rat Model

Published on: May 6, 2022

[Retinal drug targets].

F Behar-Cohen¹

¹Inserm UMRS, Équipe physiopathologie oculaire : innovations thérapeutiques, centre de recherches des Cordeliers, Hôtel-dieu, université Paris-Descartes, France. francine.behar-cohen@crc.jussieu.fr

Annales Pharmaceutiques Francaises

|March 29, 2011

Summary

Systemic drugs rarely affect the retina due to protective barriers. However, some medications can cause rare retinal toxicity, necessitating further research into drug targets and side effects for improved treatments.

Area of Science:

Ophthalmology
Pharmacology
Toxicology

Context:

The retina is protected from systemic drugs by hematoretinal barriers.
Drug accumulation in uveal cells can lead to dose-dependent, long-term retinal toxicity.
Intraocular drug administration, like glucocorticoids and anti-VEGF agents, presents unique toxicity concerns.

Purpose:

To review the mechanisms of drug-induced retinal toxicity.
To highlight the poorly understood retinal effects of glucocorticoids.
To emphasize the need for understanding long-term anti-VEGF effects on retinal physiology.

Summary:

Systemic drug toxicity to the retina is uncommon but can occur via direct receptor interaction or pigment accumulation.
Antimalarial drugs exemplify delayed toxicity, while peri/intraocular glucocorticoids and anti-VEGF agents require further mechanistic and toxicity studies.

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Understanding drug accumulation and long-term effects is crucial for managing retinal drug toxicity.

Impact:

Informs the development of safer and more effective ocular therapies.
Highlights the importance of basic research in defining drug targets for retinal diseases.
Aids clinicians in managing potential drug-related side effects in patients with retinal conditions.