Topical cyclodextrin reduces amyloid beta and inflammation improving retinal function in ageing mice

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Retinal aging is characterized by chronic inflammation and amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition, potentially leading to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
• Current therapeutic strategies for AMD, primarily systemic immunotherapies, have shown limited clinical success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin eye drops in mitigating retinal aging hallmarks in mice.
• To assess the impact of this treatment on amyloid beta levels, inflammation, visual cycle molecules, and retinal function.

Main Methods:

• Aged mice and complement factor H knockout (Cfh(-/-)) mice, a model for advanced retinal aging and AMD, were treated with 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin eye drops for three months.
• Quantification of Aβ deposition, inflammatory markers, and retinal pigment epithelium specific protein 65 (RPE65) was performed.
• Retinal function was assessed physiologically.

Main Results:

• 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin eye drops significantly reduced retinal Aβ by 65% and inflammation by 75% in aged mice.
• The treatment elevated RPE65 levels and improved physiological retinal function.
• Similar efficacy was observed in Cfh(-/-) mice, indicating effectiveness in a model of advanced retinal aging and AMD.

Conclusions:

• 2-Hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin demonstrates significant potential as a topical therapeutic agent for reducing the pathological effects of retinal aging.
• Its efficacy in reducing Aβ, inflammation, and improving visual function, coupled with its safety and economic viability, suggests a promising approach for managing AMD.
• This approach may offer an efficient strategy to combat the impact of retinal aging and AMD.