MicroRNAs may provide new strategies in the treatment and diagnosis of diabetic retinopathy: Importance of VEGF

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is ocular microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus. Along with the increasing prevalence of diabetes worldwide, DR has come into the major cause of human blindness. Several studies have demonstrated the important roles of the expression alteration in the proteins contributed to vascular dysfunction during DR, especially vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). However, there is a need for further mechanistic research in this context to design new therapeutic and diagnostic programs. MicroRNAs (miRNAs, miRs) have been introduced as key controllers of gene expression in a variety of biological processes including differentiation, proliferation, and metabolism. Altered expression of miRNAs during DR development indicates a close relationship between these regulatory molecules and DR through regulating gene expressions. This review discusses and updates the functions of miRNA-dependent pathways and key roles of VEGF in the DR, which may increase our understanding and ability to target these small but important molecules to efficiently improve therapeutic and diagnostic approaches.

Automated summary

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a major cause of blindness worldwide due to the increasing prevalence of diabetes. Studies show that altered expression of proteins like vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) plays a crucial role in vascular dysfunction during DR. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are key regulators of gene expression and are closely related to DR development by regulating gene expressions. Research on miRNA-dependent pathways and the role of VEGF in DR can improve therapeutic and diagnostic approaches for this condition.