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Updated: May 13, 2026
Limbal Approach-Subretinal Injection of Viral Vectors for Gene Therapy in Mice Retinal Pigment Epithelium
Published on: August 7, 2015
Targeting inflammation in emerging therapies for genetic retinal disease
Ishaq A Viringipurampeer1, Abu E Bashar, Cheryl Y Gregory-Evans
1Eye Care Centre, Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, University of British Columbia, 2550 Willow Street, Vancouver, BC, Canada V5Z 3N9.
Abstract:
Genetic retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and monogenic diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa account for some of the commonest causes of blindness in the developed world. Diverse genetic abnormalities and environmental causes have been implicated in triggering multiple pathological mechanisms such as oxidative stress, lipofuscin deposits, neovascularisation, and programmed cell death. In recent years, inflammation has also been highlighted although whether inflammatory mediators play a central role in pathogenesis or a more minor secondary role has yet to be established. Despite this, numerous interventional studies, particularly targeting the complement system, are underway with the promise of novel therapeutic strategies for these important blinding conditions.
Insights
Genetic retinal diseases cause blindness through various mechanisms. Emerging research highlights inflammation
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology and Genetics
Background:
- Age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa are leading causes of blindness.
- These conditions result from genetic abnormalities and environmental factors, triggering pathways like oxidative stress and cell death.
- The role of inflammation in retinal disease pathogenesis is under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the pathological mechanisms underlying common genetic retinal diseases.
- To discuss the potential role of inflammation in these blinding conditions.
- To highlight ongoing therapeutic strategies targeting the complement system.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of genetic retinal diseases.
- Analysis of pathological mechanisms including oxidative stress, lipofuscin, neovascularization, and apoptosis.
- Examination of the role of inflammation and complement system interventions.
Main Results:
- Genetic factors and environmental triggers initiate diverse pathological pathways in retinal diseases.
- Inflammation is increasingly recognized, though its precise role requires further elucidation.
- Interventional studies, especially those targeting the complement system, show therapeutic promise.
Conclusions:
- Genetic retinal diseases are a significant cause of vision loss.
- Understanding diverse pathological mechanisms, including inflammation, is crucial for developing effective treatments.
- Targeting the complement system offers a promising avenue for novel therapeutic strategies.
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