The Effects of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate (NADPH) Oxidase and Erythropoietin, and Their Interactions in Angiogenesis: Implications in Retinopathy of Prematurity

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of vision impairment and blindness in premature infants. Oxidative stress is implicated in its pathophysiology. NADPH oxidase (NOX), a major enzyme responsible for reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in endothelial cells, has been studied for its involvement in physiologic and pathologic angiogenesis. Erythropoietin (EPO) has gained interest recently due to its tissue protective and angiogenic effects, and it has been shown to act as an antioxidant. In this review, we summarize studies performed over the last five years regarding the role of various NOXs in physiologic and pathologic angiogenesis. We also discuss the effect of EPO in tissue and vasoprotection, and the intersection of EPO and NOX-mediated oxidative stress in angiogenesis and the pathophysiology of ROP.

Automated summary

This review summarizes studies conducted in the past five years on the roles of NOX and EPO in angiogenesis and the pathophysiology of ROP. The findings suggest that NOX, an enzyme responsible for ROS generation in endothelial cells, plays a significant role in both physiological and pathological angiogenesis. EPO, on the other hand, has antioxidant properties and promotes angiogenesis. This review is important for gaining a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of ROP and exploring potential therapeutic strategies.