Summary

This project explores how metabolic function and mitochondrial health of the retinal pigment epithelium are impacted during the inflammatory response of AMD. Metabolic dysfunction is emerging as a key mechanism driving many age-related diseases, including AMD. This project explores how metabolic function and mitochondrial health of the retinal pigment epithelium are impacted during the inflammatory response of AMD. Drugs that target metabolic pathways and mitochondria will be evaluated for their efficacy in blocking the inflammatory response in the retinal pigment epithelial cells.

Project Details

Little is known about the interplay between inflammatory and metabolic dysfunction in the retinal pigment epithelium. By unraveling the precise mechanisms governing this interplay, we can find novel metabolic targets and test their efficacy in dampening the inflammatory response, thereby opening innovative therapeutic approaches to treat age-related macular degeneration. Understanding the interplay of inflammation and metabolism in RPE will enhance our understanding of the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and enable the identification of novel drug targets for treating AMD and restoring vision. The findings from this study will also enhance our foundational biological understanding of inflammation and metabolism and serve to inspire more studies investigating this relationship in other diseases with an inflammatory component.