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Increased serum proteins in non-exudative AMD retinas
Hannah Schultz1, Ying Song1, Bailey H Baumann1
1F.M. Kirby Center for Molecular Ophthalmology, Scheie Eye Institute, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania, 305 Stellar-Chance Laboratory, 422 Curie Blvd, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
Experimental Eye Research
|June 4, 2019
Summary
The blood retinal barrier (BRB) may be subtly compromised in non-exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD), allowing harmful plasma proteins into the retina. This suggests BRB stabilization could be a therapeutic strategy for early AMD.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
Background:
- The blood retinal barrier (BRB) maintains retinal homeostasis.
- Compromised BRB leads to fluid accumulation and entry of harmful plasma components.
- The BRB's integrity in non-exudative age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate subclinical BRB compromise in non-exudative AMD.
- To quantify retinal levels of plasma proteins in AMD patients.
- To assess the potential role of BRB leakage in AMD pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Western blot analysis of post-mortem human retinal tissues.
- Comparison of plasma protein levels (albumin, C9, fibrinogen, IgG) between normal controls and AMD patients.
- Study of two independent cohorts from Alabama and Minnesota.
Main Results:
- Significantly elevated levels of albumin and complement component 9 (C9) in non-exudative AMD retinas (Alabama cohort).
- Elevated levels of albumin, fibrinogen, IgG, and C9 in intermediate AMD retinas (Minnesota cohort).
- Positive control exudative AMD retina showed widespread serum protein elevation.
Conclusions:
- Evidence suggests moderate, subclinical BRB leakage in non-exudative AMD.
- Plasma components, including complement and iron, may enter the retina in early AMD.
- Therapies targeting BRB stabilization may benefit non-exudative AMD management.
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