title: Diabetes and retinal vascular dysfunction.
abstract: Diabetes predominantly affects the microvascular circulation of the retina resulting in a range of structural changes unique to this tissue. These changes ultimately lead to altered permeability, hyperproliferation of endothelial cells and edema, and abnormal vascularization of the retina with resulting loss of vision. Enhanced production of inflammatory mediators and oxidative stress are primary insults with significant contribution to the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR). We have determined the identity of the retinal vascular cells affected by hyperglycemia, and have delineated the cell autonomous impact of high glucose on function of these cells. We discuss some of the high glucose specific changes in retinal vascular cells and their contribution to retinal vascular dysfunction. This knowledge provides novel insight into the molecular and cellular defects contributing to the development and progression of diabetic retinopathy, and will aid in the development of innovative, as well as target specific therapeutic approaches for prevention and treatment of DR.
authors: Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA.
authors: Eui Seok
authors: ES
authors: Shin
authors: Department of Pediatrics, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA ; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA.
authors: Christine M
authors: CM
authors: Sorenson
authors: Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA ; McPherson Eye Research Institute, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI, USA.
authors: Nader
authors: N
authors: Sheibani
keywords: Diabetes; Inflammation; Oxidative Stress; Retinal vasculature; Thrombospondins