Application of small molecules/macromolecules in ocular inflammatory diseases

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Immunology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Ocular inflammatory diseases, particularly uveitis, require effective therapeutic strategies.
• Previous reviews covered macrobiomolecular treatments, necessitating an update on small molecule and emerging therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the application of small molecules in uveitis therapy.
• To update recent advances in peptide, nucleic acid, and gene-related therapies for ocular inflammation.
• To classify immunomodulatory agents by molecular signatures and mechanisms.

Main Methods:

• Review and synthesis of existing literature on small molecule and advanced therapies for uveitis.
• Classification of immunomodulatory agents based on molecular structure and function.
• Focus on calcineurin inhibitors, oral tolerant retinal proteins/peptides, gene therapy, and RNA interference.

Main Results:

• Small molecules like corticosteroids, salicylic acid (aspirin), metabolite analogs, and anti-oxidative agents are key in uveitis therapy.
• Emerging therapies include peptide/nucleic acid-based treatments, cyclosporine, gene therapy, and RNA interference.
• Detailed analysis of molecular structures and mechanisms of action for various immunomodulatory agents.

Conclusions:

• Advances in understanding molecular mechanisms and new technologies are improving current therapeutic approaches for uveitis.
• Future directions emphasize personalized medicine to tailor treatments for safer and more effective outcomes in ocular inflammatory diseases.