Methamphetamine-Induced Loss of Syndecan-1 and Retinal Endothelial Integrity via the TAAR-1/MMP-9 Pathway

Methamphetamine (METH), a potent psychostimulant, exerts harmful effects on the vascular system by promoting oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial injury. While its impact on the blood-brain barrier is well documented, its influence on the retinal microvasculature remains less understood. This study investigated the effects of METH on syndecan-1 expression and endothelial function in primary rat retinal microvascular endothelial cells (RRMECs) and isolated ophthalmic arteries.

We assessed METH-induced changes in mRNA and protein expression levels of syndecan-1, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2, and MMP-9. Endothelial function was evaluated using scratch migration assays and trans-endothelial electrical resistance (TEER) measurements. The mechanistic involvement of MMP-9 and trace amine-associated receptor 1 (TAAR-1), a known receptor for METH, was examined using selective pharmacological inhibitors.

METH exposure significantly decreased syndecan-1 expression and increased MMP-9 levels. These changes were accompanied by impaired endothelial migration and reduced TEER in RRMECs. Similar findings were confirmed in cultured ophthalmic arteries, reinforcing the translational relevance of our in vitro results. Inhibition of MMPs restored syndecan-1 expression and rescued endothelial function. Furthermore, TAAR-1 antagonism protected against syndecan-1 degradation, reduced MMP-9 upregulation, and improved endothelial migration and barrier resistance.

Our findings suggest that METH induces loss of syndecan-1 and retinal vascular integrity by promoting TAAR-1-mediated MMP-9 upregulation. Targeting the TAAR-1/MMP-9 axis may offer a promising therapeutic strategy for preventing METH-induced microvascular damage in the retina.