Abstract

Summary

This review covers small molecule therapeutic strategies for inherited retinal degenerations, focusing on metabolic pathways, phototransduction, and visual cycle disruptions as drug targets. While not directly addressing lighting design, it provides foundational knowledge on photoreceptor biology relevant to understanding retinal vulnerability to light exposure and the limits of light-based interventions.
Abstract

Key Findings

  • Inherited retinal degenerations affect more than 1 in 4000 people worldwide, frequently causing death of photoreceptor cells or retinal ganglion cells.
  • Metabolic pathway disruptions are common across most inherited retinal degenerations, making them promising therapeutic targets.
  • Phototransduction, visual cycle, and mitophagy pathways are key targets identified in monogenic retinal degeneration disorders.
  • Stem cell-derived retinal organoids and human retinal ganglion cells are emerging as improved preclinical models for drug discovery, overcoming limitations of rodent models.
Categories

Categories

Eye Health & Vision: Reviews drug discovery strategies for inherited retinal degenerations affecting photoreceptors and retinal ganglion cells.
The Science of Light: Discusses phototransduction and visual cycle pathways as therapeutic targets in photoreceptor cell degeneration.
Authors

Author(s)

A Das, Y Imanishi
Publication Date

Publication Year

2022
Citations

Number of Citations

2
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