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Updated: May 31, 2026
Monitoring Dynamic Growth of Retinal Vessels in Oxygen-Induced Retinopathy Mouse Model
Published on: April 2, 2021
Mediators involved in retinopathy of prematurity and emerging therapeutic targets
A Mataftsi1, S A Dimitrakos, G G W Adams
1Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, United Kingdom. mataftsi@doctors.org.uk
Insights
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of blindness in premature infants. New research into molecular pathways offers hope for targeted therapies to prevent ROP-related vision loss.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neonatology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a serious eye condition in premature infants that can lead to blindness.
- Current laser treatments for ROP cause retinal tissue destruction and visual field loss.
- Emerging research focuses on neovascular eye diseases and anti-angiogenic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on the molecular pathogenesis of ROP.
- To explore potential novel therapeutic interventions for ROP based on molecular targets.
- To highlight advancements in anti-angiogenic approaches for ROP treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent scientific publications.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms underlying ROP development.
- Examination of ongoing clinical trials for new ROP therapies.
Main Results:
- Identification of key molecular mediators involved in ROP pathogenesis.
- Discussion of novel anti-angiogenic therapies targeting specific molecular pathways.
- Overview of new therapeutic interventions that have entered clinical trials.
Conclusions:
- Understanding ROP's molecular pathogenesis is crucial for developing targeted treatments.
- Anti-angiogenic therapies show promise in arresting ROP progression and preventing vision loss.
- Novel treatments may offer alternatives to destructive laser therapy, preserving visual function.
Abstract:
Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a potentially blinding disease of premature infants and despite timely treatment some infants develop retinal detachment and sight loss. Current treatment utilises laser therapy which causes destruction of treated retinal tissue resulting in field loss. There is considerable research work ongoing on neovascular eye disease which is likely to result in antiangiogenic approaches that will arrest the development of ROP by specifically targeting the involved molecular mediators. Some of these new therapeutic interventions have entered clinical trials. This article reviews new information available on the molecular pathogenesis of ROP which may result in novel treatments for ROP; it does not discuss the well-known role of oxygen in the development of ROP.
