Scientists from Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine have identified specific retinal cells that trigger inflammation and vision impairment associated with diabetes, providing them with a therapeutic target against diabetic retinopathy.
According to researchers, Mu¨ller cells — which provide structural support in the retina — have been identified as key drivers of the process. Researchers then found through a mouse model a receptor protein called CD40 that sits on the surface of Mu¨ller cells sends signals to nearby cells to initiate harmful inflammation in the retina, ultimately providing them with a therapeutic target against diabetic retinopathy.
The researchers are now reportedly combining mouse models with pharmacologic interventions that block inflammatory processes induced by CD40, to ultimately prevent diabetic retinopathy.
The research was recently published in the journal Diabetes.
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Source: Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine