TGF-β Signaling Pathways in the Development of Diabetic Retinopathy

Division

Central and West Texas

Hospital

Del Sol Medical Center

Document Type

Manuscript

Publication Date

3-6-2024

Keywords

Humans, Diabetic Retinopathy, Transforming Growth Factor beta, Oxidative Stress, Reactive Oxygen Species, Bone Morphogenetic Proteins, Signal Transduction, Retina, Diabetes Mellitus

Disciplines

Endocrine System Diseases | Eye Diseases | Medicine and Health Sciences

Abstract

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a prevalent complication of diabetes mellitus affecting a significant portion of the global population, has long been viewed primarily as a microvascular disorder. However, emerging evidence suggests that it should be redefined as a neurovascular disease with multifaceted pathogenesis rooted in oxidative stress and advanced glycation end products. The transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling family has emerged as a major contributor to DR pathogenesis due to its pivotal role in retinal vascular homeostasis, endothelial cell barrier function, and pericyte differentiation. However, the precise roles of TGF-β signaling in DR remain incompletely understood, with conflicting reports on its impact in different stages of the disease. Additionally, the BMP subfamily within the TGF-β superfamily introduces further complexity, with BMPs exhibiting both pro- and anti-angiogenic properties. Furthermore, TGF-β signaling extends beyond the vascular realm, encompassing immune regulation, neuronal survival, and maintenance. The intricate interactions between TGF-β and reactive oxygen species (ROS), non-coding RNAs, and inflammatory mediators have been implicated in the pathogenesis of DR. This review delves into the complex web of signaling pathways orchestrated by the TGF-β superfamily and their involvement in DR. A comprehensive understanding of these pathways may hold the key to developing targeted therapies to halt or mitigate the progression of DR and its devastating consequences.

Publisher or Conference

International Journal of Molecular Sciences

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