Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 29, 2026
09:05
Imaging Ca2+ Dynamics in Cone Photoreceptor Axon Terminals of the Mouse Retina
Published on: May 6, 2015
11.3K
Targeting AKT via SC79 for Photoreceptor Preservation in Retinitis Pigmentosa Mouse Models
Alicia A Brunet1,2,3, Kate Gilbert1,4, Annie L Miller1,2
1Lions Eye Institute Ltd., 2 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia.
Biomedicines
|January 28, 2026
Summary
Activating the AKT pathway with SC79 shows potential for preserving photoreceptors in retinitis pigmentosa, particularly in recessive forms. Further research is needed to optimize treatment delivery for enhanced therapeutic effects.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a leading cause of inherited blindness.
- The pro-survival kinase AKT is downregulated in RP photoreceptors.
- AKT activation may offer neuroprotection in neurodegenerative conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the therapeutic potential of SC79, an AKT activator, in mouse models of retinitis pigmentosa (RP).
- To assess SC79's effects on photoreceptor preservation and visual function in rd1.GFP and RhoP23H.GFP mice.
Main Methods:
- SC79 was administered via intravitreal injection in rd1.GFP and RhoP23H.GFP mouse models at postnatal day 12.
- Analyses included retinal function, thickness, photoreceptor morphology, and AKT-related protein expression.
Main Results:
- SC79 (10 µM) was well-tolerated in wildtype mice.
- In rd1.GFP mice, SC79 partially preserved outer nuclear layer thickness, improved rod and cone function, and modulated AKT pathway proteins.
- SC79 did not show detectable therapeutic effects in RhoP23H.GFP mice or confer benefits at a higher dose (100 µM).
Conclusions:
- AKT pathway modulation holds therapeutic promise for photoreceptor preservation in recessive retinitis pigmentosa.
- Optimizing SC79 treatment delivery is crucial for realizing its full neuroprotective potential.
Related Concept Videos
02:00Photoreceptors and Plant Responses to Light
28.4K
Light plays a significant role in regulating the growth and development of plants. In addition to providing energy for photosynthesis, light provides other important cues to regulate a range of developmental and physiological responses in plants.
28.4K
01:22PI3K/mTOR/AKT Signaling Pathway
5.5K
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a serine/threonine kinase that regulates growth, proliferation, and cell survival in response to hormones, growth factors, or nutrient availability. This kinase exists in two structurally and functionally distinct forms: mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) and mTOR complex 2 (mTORC2). The first form (mTORC1) is composed of a rapamycin-sensitive Raptor and proline-rich Akt substrate, PRAS40. In contrast, mTORC2 consists of a...
5.5K
01:22Photoreceptors and Visual Pathways
9.2K
At the molecular level, visual signals trigger transformations in photopigment molecules, resulting in changes in the photoreceptor cell's membrane potential. The photon's energy level is denoted by its wavelength, with each specific wavelength of visible light associated with a distinct color. The spectral range of visible light, classified as electromagnetic radiation, spans from 380 to 720 nm. Electromagnetic radiation wavelengths exceeding 720 nm fall under the infrared category,...
9.2K
02:43Mouse Models of Cancer Study
6.5K
Mice have long served as models for studying human biology and pathology because of their phylogenetic and physiological similarity with humans. They are also easy to maintain and breed in the laboratory, and hence, many inbred strains are now available for research. Studies on mice have contributed immeasurably to our understanding of cancer biology.
The development of transgenic, knockout, and knock-in mice has led to an exponential increase in their use as model organisms in research,...
The development of transgenic, knockout, and knock-in mice has led to an exponential increase in their use as model organisms in research,...
6.5K
02:57Targeted Cancer Therapies
8.9K
The targeted cancer therapies, also known as “molecular targeted therapies,” take advantage of the molecular and genetic differences between the cancer cells and the normal cells. It needs a thorough understanding of the cancer cells to develop drugs that can target specific molecular aspects that drive the growth, progression, and spread of cancer cells without affecting the growth and survival of other normal cells in the body.
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
8.9K
01:26Targets for Drug Action: Overview
10.2K
Drugs target macromolecules to modify ongoing cellular processes. Primary drug targets include receptors, ion channels, transporters, and enzymes.
Receptors are either membrane-spanning or intracellular proteins, which upon binding a ligand, get activated and transmit the signal downstream to elicit a response. Drugs bind receptors, either mimicking the action of endogenous ligands or blocking the receptor activity to bring about a modified response. Nearly 35% of approved drugs target the G...
Receptors are either membrane-spanning or intracellular proteins, which upon binding a ligand, get activated and transmit the signal downstream to elicit a response. Drugs bind receptors, either mimicking the action of endogenous ligands or blocking the receptor activity to bring about a modified response. Nearly 35% of approved drugs target the G...
10.2K