The role and mechanism of post-translational modifications (PTMs) in immune-related eye diseases

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) encompass the spectrum of chemical covalent alterations that proteins undergo after being synthesized from mRNA. These modifications typically involve the covalent bonding of chemical groups or small protein molecules to the amino acid backbones or side chains. Currently, over 650 types of PTMs have been identified, including significant ones such as phosphorylation, ubiquitination, SUMOylation, methylation, acetylation, glycosylation, among other novel varieties like lactylation. However, a systematic review of PTMs associated with immune-mediated ocular diseases remains conspicuously absent in current literature. To fully understand the role of PTM in immune eye diseases, this review systematically introduces the regulatory mechanisms and functions of several important PTMs. Furthermore, this review also encapsulates the mechanisms of PTMs in several pivotal immune-related ocular conditions, specifically uveitis, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), dry eye disease (DED), and diabetic retinopathy (DR). By integrating current evidence, this work not only clarifies the pathogenic contributions of specific PTMs but also identifies their potential as therapeutic targets. Finally, we discuss future research directions and the challenges of translating PTM-based interventions into clinical practice for ocular immune disorders.