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P2X7-dependent immune pathways in retinal diseases
Paul-Alexandre Déchelle-Marquet1, Xavier Guillonneau1, Florian Sennlaub1
1Sorbonne University, INSERM, CNRS, Institut de la Vision, 17 rue Moreau, F-75012, Paris, France.
Abstract:
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a signalling molecule acting as a neurotransmitter but also as a danger signal. The purinergic receptor P2X7 is the main sensor of high concentration of ATP released by damaged cells. In the eye, P2X7 is expressed by resident microglia and immune cells that infiltrate the retina in disease such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a degenerative retinal disease, and uveitis, an inflammatory eye disease. Activation of P2X7 is involved in several physiological and pathological processes: phagocytosis, activation of the inflammasome NLRP3, release of pro-inflammatory mediators and cell death. The aim of this review is to discuss the potential involvement of P2X7 in the development of AMD and uveitis.
Insights
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) acts as a danger signal, sensed by the P2X7 receptor. This review explores P2X7
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) is a crucial signaling molecule with neurotransmitter and danger signal functions.
- The P2X7 receptor is a primary sensor for high ATP concentrations released by damaged cells.
- P2X7 is expressed in the retina by microglia and infiltrating immune cells, particularly in diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and uveitis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of the P2X7 receptor in the pathogenesis of ocular diseases.
- To discuss the potential involvement of P2X7 in the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and uveitis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating P2X7 receptor function in ocular tissues.
- Analysis of P2X7 expression patterns in retinal cells during disease states.
- Examination of P2X7-mediated signaling pathways relevant to inflammation and cell death in the eye.
Main Results:
- P2X7 activation is implicated in key pathological processes including phagocytosis, inflammasome activation (NLRP3), pro-inflammatory mediator release, and cell death.
- The P2X7 receptor plays a significant role in the inflammatory response within the retina.
- Evidence suggests P2X7 involvement in the progression of retinal degenerative and inflammatory diseases.
Conclusions:
- The P2X7 receptor is a critical mediator in the inflammatory and degenerative processes observed in AMD and uveitis.
- Targeting the P2X7 receptor may offer a therapeutic strategy for managing these debilitating eye conditions.
