Molecular Mechanisms of Retinal Pigment Epithelium Dysfunction in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Jongmin Kim, Yeo Jin Lee, Jae Yon Won
Abstract
The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), situated upon Bruch's membrane, plays multiple roles in the ocular system by interacting with photoreceptors and. Therefore, dysfunction of the RPE causes diseases related to vision loss, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Despite AMD being a global cause of blindness, the pathogenesis remains unclear. Understanding the pathogenesis of AMD is the first step for its prevention and treatment. This review summarizes the common pathways of RPE dysfunction and their effect in AMD. Potential treatment strategies for AMD based on targeting the RPE have also been discussed.
Topics & Concepts
Macular degenerationRetinal pigment epitheliumPathogenesisBlindnessMedicineDegeneration (medical)Retinal DisorderRetinalRetinal degenerationRetinaOphthalmologyBiologyNeurosciencePathologyOptometryRetinal Diseases and TreatmentsRetinal Development and DisordersGlaucoma and retinal disorders