Kinins and Their Receptors as Potential Therapeutic Targets in Retinal Pathologies

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Molecular Biology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• The kallikrein-kinin system (KKS) is implicated in retinal inflammation and neovascularization.
• Bradykinin receptors, specifically B1R and B2R, mediate kinin effects.
• B1R is upregulated in pathological conditions, unlike the constitutively expressed B2R.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the KKS and kinin receptors' roles in retinal diseases.
• To emphasize the detrimental impact of B1R in diabetic retinopathy (DR) and neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
• To explore the KKS and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) crosstalk in ocular pathologies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of KKS components and kinin receptors in retinal diseases.
• Analysis of KKS and RAS interactions in ocular pathologies.
• Evaluation of therapeutic potential of KKS inhibition, particularly B1R.

Main Results:

• KKS components, including kinin receptors, are overexpressed in DR and AMD models.
• Inhibition of KKS, especially B1R, reduces retinal inflammation and neovascularization.
• B1R may act as an effector for detrimental RAS effects (Ang II-AT1R) in the eye.

Conclusions:

• The KKS, particularly B1R, plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of DR and AMD.
• Targeting B1R represents a promising therapeutic strategy for inflammatory retinal diseases.
• Understanding KKS-RAS crosstalk is crucial for developing effective ocular treatments.