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Effects of caloric restriction on retinal aging and neurodegeneration
Annagrazia Adornetto1, Luigi Antonio Morrone1, Andrea Satriano1
1Preclinical and Translational Pharmacology, Department of Pharmacy, Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Calabria, Rende, Italy.
Abstract:
Glaucoma is the most common neurodegenerative cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. Restricted caloric regimens are an attractive approach for delaying the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Here we review the current literature on the effects of caloric restriction on retinal neurons, under physiological and pathological conditions. We focused on autophagy as one of the mechanisms modulated by restricted caloric regimens and involved in the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) over the course of glaucoma.
Insights
Caloric restriction may protect against glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness. This review explores how dietary changes impact retinal neurons and autophagy, a key process in glaucoma progression.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Ophthalmology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Glaucoma is a primary cause of irreversible blindness globally.
- Neurodegenerative diseases may be delayed by caloric restriction.
- Retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) are crucial for vision and vulnerable in glaucoma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effects of caloric restriction on retinal neurons.
- To investigate the role of autophagy in RGC death during glaucoma.
- To explore potential therapeutic strategies for glaucoma.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on caloric restriction and retinal neurons.
- Focus on the mechanism of autophagy in RGCs.
- Analysis of physiological and pathological conditions affecting RGCs.
Main Results:
- Caloric restriction shows potential in neuroprotection for retinal neurons.
- Autophagy is modulated by caloric restriction and implicated in RGC death.
- Understanding these mechanisms could inform glaucoma treatment.
Conclusions:
- Caloric restriction may offer a protective strategy against glaucoma.
- Targeting autophagy presents a promising avenue for therapeutic intervention.
- Further research is needed to translate these findings into clinical practice.
