Curr Eye Res
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41705402
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PURPOSE: This study primarily aimed to identify the causes of failed dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) with high ostium and analyze the associated radiological and endoscopic findings. METHODS: A retrospective interventional c...PURPOSE: This study primarily aimed to identify the causes of failed dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) with high ostium and analyze the associated radiological and endoscopic findings. METHODS: A retrospective interventional case series was conducted to analyze 72 eyes (from 69 patients) with high ostia and failed DCRs, all revised by the same surgeon between January 2015 and December 2024. The data collected included patient demographics, diagnostic and management details, objective measurements of computerized tomography dacryocystography (CT-DCG) images, and endoscopic findings. CT-DCG and endoscopy findings from 33 successful primary DCR cases were used as controls. RESULTS: The most common reasons for primary DCR failure were cicatricial closure of the DCR ostium (97.2%, 70/72), and creation of a small or inappropriately positioned bony ostium. Early recurrence (at one-month post-operatively) occurred in 62.5% (45/72) of cases. Compared with the successful group, the failed group had more prior laser DCR interventions and intubations before the primary DCR surgery ( = 0.03). The failed group also had a higher incidence of associated sinusitis ( = 0.011). The distance from the superior boundary of the ostium to the frontomaxillary suture on CT-DCG was significantly variable between the cases and the controls ( = 0.003). The CT-DCG findings of inadequate bone removal overlying the lacrimal sac, the unaddressed anterior uncinate process, ostium location away from the middle turbinate axilla, and the unopened agger nasi cell appeared to be the factors that influenced the outcomes of the initial DCR ( < 0.05). At the last follow-up, the anatomical success following revision of the prior high ostium failed DCRs was achieved in 95.8% (69/72), and the outcomes were excellent. CONCLUSION: This study provides a precise CT-DCG and endoscopic comparison between high ostium failed DCRs and the ostia of successful cases. Analysis and objective measurements of CT-DCG provided valuable insights during the revision surgery in such cohorts.
Deguchi S, Morita A, Kashihara T
… +1 more, Nakahara T
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41705362
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PURPOSE: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness in preterm infants, is characterized by abnormal retinal vascular development, including tortuous arterioles and abnormally de...PURPOSE: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness in preterm infants, is characterized by abnormal retinal vascular development, including tortuous arterioles and abnormally dense capillaries. Dysregulated production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and disrupted interactions between glial and vascular cells contribute to its pathogenesis. This study investigated the effects of aflibercept, a clinically used anti-VEGF drug, and KRN633, a VEGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor, on abnormal retinal vasculature and astrocyte distribution in a rat model of ROP. METHODS: ROP was induced in neonatal rats by subcutaneous injections of KRN633 on postnatal day (P) 7 and P8. Arteriolar tortuosity, capillary density, mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) activity (as indicated by phosphorylation of S6 protein [pS6]), and the distribution of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)-positive astrocytes were evaluated. RESULTS: In ROP model rats, tortuous arterioles and dense capillary plexuses were observed. At the vascular front, many vascular endothelial cells lacked GFAP-positive astrocyte coverage and exhibited strong pS6 immunoreactivity. Treatment with aflibercept or KRN633 significantly reduced capillary density and pS6-positive blood vessels at the vascular front. Following treatment, most vascular endothelial cells were covered by GFAP-positive astrocytes. However, neither aflibercept nor KRN633 ameliorated arteriolar tortuosity. CONCLUSION: These findings suggest that pathological angiogenesis in ROP is mediated through VEGF- and mTORC1-dependent mechanisms. Anti-VEGF therapies may help restore glial-vascular interactions by reducing abnormal blood vessels in the ROP retina.
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 Feb · PMID 41697108
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PURPOSE: Tear fluid represents a minimally invasive and accessible source for biomarker discovery in both ocular and systemic diseases. This mini review aims to summarize and critically evaluate current microscopy and sp...PURPOSE: Tear fluid represents a minimally invasive and accessible source for biomarker discovery in both ocular and systemic diseases. This mini review aims to summarize and critically evaluate current microscopy and spectroscopy techniques applied to tear fluid analysis and their relevance for disease detection and monitoring. METHODS: A focused review was conducted on advanced microscopy and spectroscopy techniques used in tear fluid research. The methodologies discussed include atomic force microscopy, polarized light microscopy, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, circular dichroism, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, and fluorescence techniques. These approaches were examined for their ability to characterize tear fluid morphology, molecular composition, and biochemical alterations. RESULTS: The reviewed techniques enable high-resolution morphological imaging, detailed protein secondary structure analysis, and sensitive detection of lipid and glycoprotein alterations in tear fluid. Multiple studies have demonstrated disease-specific changes detectable by these methods in conditions such as dry eye disease, keratoconus, multiple sclerosis, diabetes mellitus, glaucoma, and depressive disorder. The findings highlight the versatility and diagnostic potential of microscopy and spectroscopy in identifying subtle biochemical and structural changes associated with disease states. CONCLUSION: Microscopy and spectroscopy techniques offer powerful tools for advancing tear fluid diagnostics. However, challenges remain in standardizing sampling protocols and analysis methods. These are key for ensuring reproducibility and clinical applicability. Addressing these challenges will be important to unlock the full diagnostic potential of microscopy and spectroscopy techniques for tear fluid analysis in medical practice.
Wu P, Zhou X, Zhang X
… +5 more, Nie F, Zhao Y, Liao L, Xu J, Duan X
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41697065
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PURPOSE: To compare the differential effects of EP3, FP, and EP2 receptor agonists on adipogenic differentiation in orbital adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (OASC) spheroids from thyroid eye disease (TED) patients....PURPOSE: To compare the differential effects of EP3, FP, and EP2 receptor agonists on adipogenic differentiation in orbital adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell (OASC) spheroids from thyroid eye disease (TED) patients. METHODS: Orbital adipose tissue was obtained from inactive TED patients, and OASCs were isolated. Three-dimensional spheroid cultures were established and induced for adipogenic differentiation in the presence of FP agonist bimatoprost (BIM), EP3 agonist sulprostone (SULP), or EP2 agonist butaprost (BUTA). Spheroid size and lipid accumulation were assessed using bright-field imaging, BODIPY staining, and Oil Red O staining. Gene and protein expression of adipogenic markers (PPARG, ADIPOQ, FABP4, LEPTIN) were quantified by qPCR and/or western blotting. Levels of IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α, IFN-γ, MCP-1, and Leptin in culture supernatants were measured by ELISA. RESULTS: Sulprostone and bimatoprost markedly inhibited adipogenic differentiation of OASC spheroids, as evidenced by reduced spheroid size, decreased lipid accumulation, and downregulation of PPARG, FABP4, and LEPTIN. Compared with sulprostone, bimatoprost exerted a stronger inhibitory effect, showing smaller spheroid size, fewer lipid droplets, and lower LEPTIN expression. Despite the suppression of lipid accumulation, ADIPOQ expression was significantly upregulated in both SULP and BIM groups. Notably, bimatoprost treatment was associated with increased secretion of IL-6 and TNF-α, whereas sulprostone did not significantly alter the levels of the examined inflammatory cytokines. In contrast, butaprost showed no significant inhibitory effect on adipogenic differentiation, with lipid accumulation patterns similar to those of the control group. CONCLUSIONS: Activation of EP3, FP, and EP2 receptors differentially modulates orbital adipogenesis. Among them, EP3 receptor activation by sulprostone suppresses adipogenic differentiation without increasing the evaluated inflammatory cytokines in our study. These findings suggest that EP3 receptor agonism may represent a potential strategy for limiting orbital fat expansion in TED, although further studies are required to evaluate its therapeutic feasibility and safety.
Jiang YQ, Ye JQ, Xie HN
… +3 more, Wang R, Zhang QR, Huang HB
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41687000
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PURPOSE: This study aimed to establish an experimental rat model of Terson syndrome and explore occludin's role in blood-retinal barrier disruption. METHODS: We induced acute intracranial pressure elevation in rats cist...PURPOSE: This study aimed to establish an experimental rat model of Terson syndrome and explore occludin's role in blood-retinal barrier disruption. METHODS: We induced acute intracranial pressure elevation in rats cisterna magna normal saline or autologous blood injections (0.25-0.75 mL over 30-60 s) and monitored intraocular hemorrhage over 7 days. Retinal leakage was assessed fluorescein flat-mounts, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and interleukin-6 (IL-6) enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and occludin immunofluorescence. RESULTS: Both injections into the cisterna magna effectively induced Terson syndrome manifestations. All experimental groups demonstrated significant fluorescein leakage from posterior pole vessels within 1 min post-injection, with predominant extravasation observed along superficial retinal veins. While venous leakage progressively diminished after 30 min, peripheral capillary leakage emerged. Retinal VEGF levels significantly increased at 30 and 60 min post-intracranial pressure elevation, while IL-6 levels rose at 30 min. Quantitative analysis demonstrated no significant alterations in total retinal occludin levels. Additionally, stratified analysis revealed unchanged occludin levels in both the intermediate capillary plexus (ICP) and the deep capillary plexus (DCP). The superficial vascular complex (SVC) exhibited significant occludin reduction at 1, 30, and 60 min post-induction and the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) showed delayed occludin downregulation at day 5. CONCLUSIONS: This study established a preliminary experimental rat model of Terson syndrome. The model suggests Terson syndrome results from intracranial hypertension compressing the central retinal vein, disrupting tight junctions, and causing blood-retinal barrier failure, leading to hemorrhage.
Fan F, Wu Y, Tang D
… +4 more, Zuo J, Shu Y, Deng Z, Wang K
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 May · PMID 41656942
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PURPOSE: This study aimed to elucidate the role of Src-homology 2 domain-containing inositol-5-phosphatase 1 (SHIP-1) in modulating immune responses in experimental allergic conjunctivitis (EAC) and to assess its therape...PURPOSE: This study aimed to elucidate the role of Src-homology 2 domain-containing inositol-5-phosphatase 1 (SHIP-1) in modulating immune responses in experimental allergic conjunctivitis (EAC) and to assess its therapeutic potential. METHODS: A short ragweed (SRW)-induced EAC mouse model was treated with subconjunctival injections of the SHIP-1 activator AQX1125 (3 mM/5 μL/eye) or antagonist 3AC (0.2292 μmol/5 μL/eye) every other day. Clinical symptoms were scored periodically, and conjunctival tissues were collected on days 1, 7, and 14 for histopathological (H&E staining) and immunofluorescence analyses. Protein expression in ocular tissues was evaluated by Western blotting, and immune cell profiles in the spleen were characterized by flow cytometry. RESULTS: Compared to 3AC, AQX1125 markedly attenuated ocular symptoms and reduced disease duration. Histopathological evaluation revealed diminished inflammatory cell infiltration in AQX1125-treated mice, whereas 3AC exacerbated infiltration. Immunofluorescence demonstrated reduced CD4 T cell recruitment and enhanced SHIP-1 expression in the AQX1125 group at days 7 and 14. Western blot analysis showed upregulation of CCR7 alongside downregulation of PIP3, p-AKT, and p-mTOR in AQX1125-treated mice, while 3AC exerted opposing effects. Additionally, 3AC increased splenic CD4 T cell populations at days 7 and 14 post-treatment. CONCLUSION: SHIP-1 activation may represent a promising therapeutic approach for EAC, potentially through suppression of pathogenic CD4 T cell migration and modulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway. These findings underscore the anti-inflammatory properties of SHIP-1 activators in allergic conjunctivitis.
Yao N, Chen Y, Shen G
… +4 more, Zhang Y, Yu S, Li M, Nie C
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 Jun · PMID 41636460
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INTRODUCTION: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of childhood blindness, characterized by hypoxia-driven pathological retinal neovascularization. Current treatments, such as laser therapy and anti-VEGF d...INTRODUCTION: Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a leading cause of childhood blindness, characterized by hypoxia-driven pathological retinal neovascularization. Current treatments, such as laser therapy and anti-VEGF drugs, carry significant risks, highlighting the need for safer preventive strategies. This study investigates the role of Pannexin-1 (Panx1) in the pathogenesis of ROP and explores its potential as a therapeutic target by modulating the HIF-1α/VEGF pathway. METHODS: Human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs) were obtained from fetal eyes at 26-32 weeks gestational age, with ethical approval from the Guangdong Women and Children Hospital (No: 202201258). Retinal tissue was digested using 25 g/L trypsin and cultured in DMEM/F12 medium supplemented with 100 g/L fetal bovine serum (FBS). Transcriptomic sequencing libraries were prepared using the TruSeq stranded total RNA kit, and sequencing was conducted on the Illumina 6000 platform. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified ( < 0.05, |logFC| > 1). Validation experiments included rt-qPCR, Western blotting, and CCK-8 assays. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 24.0 and R v4.1.2, with DEG analysis conducted the limma package. RESULTS: Transcriptomic sequencing revealed 567 differentially expressed mRNAs(345 upregulated, 222 downregulated) and indicated a significant upregulation of Panx1 expression in the ROP group compared to controls. Rt-qPCR and Western blotting confirmed hypoxia-induced overexpression of Panx1. Probenecid (PBC) treatment inhibited the hypoxia-driven upregulation of Panx1, HIF-1α, and VEGF at both mRNA and protein levels. CCK-8 assays showed that hypoxia significantly impaired HRMEC proliferation (24h: < 0.05; 48h: < 0.001), and PBC further suppressed this effect ( < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: Panx1 inhibition ( PBC) suppresses the HIF-1α/VEGF signaling pathway and reduces hypoxia-induced endothelial cell proliferation, providing a novel preventive strategy for ROP.
Lei Y, Yang J, Li Y
… +3 more, Xiao B, Lai D, Qiu Q
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 May · PMID 41636066
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PURPOSE: Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs have limitations in the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of radiothe...PURPOSE: Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs have limitations in the treatment of neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of radiotherapy combined with anti-VEGF therapy versus anti-VEGF monotherapy in the treatment of nAMD. This systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO registration number: CRD420251010811) searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, Web of Science, LILACS, ISRCTN registry, and ClinicalTrials.gov up to February 25, 2025. Two radiotherapy modalities were analyzed: epimacular brachytherapy (EBM) and stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT). The primary outcome was the proportion of participants who lost more than 15 Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (ETDRS) letters at 12 and 24 months. A total of four studies were included, yielding 7 articles for meta-analysis. RESULTS: For EBM combined with anti-VEGF therapy, compared with anti-VEGF monotherapy, there was a higher risk of losing more than 15 ETDRS letters at 12 months (relative risk [RR] 2.36, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.49-3.74) and 24 months (RR 2.39, 95% CI 1.68-3.39). The difference in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.10 logarithm of the minimum angle of resolution (logMAR) (95% CI 0.05-0.15) at 12 months and 0.17 logMAR (95% CI 0.13-0.21) at 24 months. For SRT combined with anti-VEGF therapy, there was a greater risk of losing more than 15 ETDRS letters at 24 months (RR 1.75, 95% CI 1.12-2.74) compared with anti-VEGF monotherapy; however, the SRT group required 2.10 fewer ranibizumab injections than the sham-irradiation group (mean difference [MD] -2.10, 95% CI -2.97 to -1.22). CONCLUSION: Epimacular brachytherapy (EBM) combined with anti-VEGF therapy may worsen patient outcomes and increase the risk of adverse events. In contrast, stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) combined with anti-VEGF therapy does not improve visual acuity but can reduce the frequency of anti-VEGF injections, potentially alleviating the treatment burden for patients with nAMD.
Jiao X, Gao N, Wang D
… +5 more, Pazo EE, Qi Y, Ma Y, Zhang C, Yang R
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 Jan · PMID 41614433
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PURPOSE: To evaluate the expression differences of tear lymphotoxin-α (LT-α), total immunoglobulin E (IgE), and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in seasonal/perennial allergic conjunctivitis-associated dry eye (S/PAC-D...PURPOSE: To evaluate the expression differences of tear lymphotoxin-α (LT-α), total immunoglobulin E (IgE), and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) in seasonal/perennial allergic conjunctivitis-associated dry eye (S/PAC-DE) and their clinical relevance, probing the underlying pathogenesis of S/PAC-DE. METHODS: This study enrolled 37 S/PAC-DE patients, 23 dry eye (DE) patients, and 24 healthy controls (HC). Assessing the clinical parameters, tear LT-α, total IgE, MMP-9, and nine other inflammatory cytokines in the three groups. Correlations between tear cytokines and clinical parameters were also analyzed. RESULTS: Tear LT-α levels were significantly lower in S/PAC-DE compared to DE and HC groups. Tear total IgE, TNF-α, and MMP-9 levels were significantly upregulated in the S/PAC-DE group than those in the DE (all < 0.001) and HC groups ( = 0.005, < 0.001, and = 0.048). In the S/PAC-DE group, total IgE was positively correlated with MMP-9 ( = 0.652, = 0.008). Total IgE and LT-α were positively correlated in the DE group ( = 0.498, = 0.016), while the two showed a negative correlation trend in the S/PAC-DE group (r=-0.272, = 0.103). LT-α was positively correlated with tear film break-up time and negatively correlated with corneal fluorescein staining score in both the S/PAC-DE and DE groups. CONCLUSIONS: In the S/PAC-DE co-morbid state, the inhibition of tear LT-α expression and the upregulation of the pro-inflammatory cytokines total IgE, TNF-α, and MMP-9 may collectively contribute to the disruption of the ocular surface epithelial barrier, further promoting and exacerbating DE. Additionally, the differences in correlation between LT-α and total IgE in the S/PAC-DE and common DE patients may be related to the distinct ocular immune microenvironments.
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 Mar · PMID 41566967
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PURPOSE: This study explored the regulatory role of microglia in retinal vascular development, particularly their effects on vascular bifurcation and maturation. The study aimed to elucidate how microglia influence retin...PURPOSE: This study explored the regulatory role of microglia in retinal vascular development, particularly their effects on vascular bifurcation and maturation. The study aimed to elucidate how microglia influence retinal vascular complexity and maturation. METHODS: Using CX3CR1 reporter and pharmacological depletion mouse model, retinas were analyzed at P42 immunofluorescence staining and confocal microscopy. Primary brain-derived microglia and brain microvascular endothelial cells were used for co-culture experiments. Quantitative assessments of vascular bifurcation points were performed ImageJ software. Tangential frozen sections were used to analyze spatial relationships. RESULTS: The results revealed an increase in vascular bifurcation complexity, which was correlated with microglia density. Conversely, microglial depletion led to a significant reduction in vascular bifurcation, particularly in the peripheral retina, impairing the formation of the vascular network. , co-culture with microglia enhanced endothelial cell tube formation and sprouting. CONCLUSION: Our findings reveal a strong association between microglial distribution and vascular patterning, supporting the role of microglia in normal retinal vascular development and offering perspectives for future research.
Englisch CE, Darwisch W, Weber D
… +5 more, Massia Menkene L, Szurman P, Boden KT, Rickmann A, Trouvain AM
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 May · PMID 41553132
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PURPOSE: After Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK), the air-gas compound in the anterior chamber can lead to a postoperative increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) up to pupillary block. YAG laser iridotomy...PURPOSE: After Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK), the air-gas compound in the anterior chamber can lead to a postoperative increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) up to pupillary block. YAG laser iridotomy (IO) or surgical iridectomy (IE) is performed to prevent these painful and sight-threatening elevations. We aimed to compare the safety profiles of the two procedures. METHODS: We included a total of = 196 eyes of = 178 patients (55.6% female and 44.4% male) who underwent DMEK. Of these, 124 eyes received intraoperatively an IE (63.3%, group IE) and 72 an IO one day before the surgery (36.7%, group IO). A procedural imbalance between both groups has to be noted, as phakic patients often underwent IO and the pseudophakic ones always underwent IE. The primary endpoint was the incidence of elevated IOP. Secondary endpoints were the clinical outcome (measured by endothelial cell count (ECC), visual acuity (VA), central corneal thickness (CCT)) and risk factors for pressure elevation. RESULTS: Group IO showed a significantly higher incidence of postoperative IOP values above 50 mmHg ( = .021), a higher absolute IOP immediately after surgery compared to group IE ( = .004; ω = .04) and a greater immediate IOP difference from preoperative to postoperative ( = .011, ω = .03). This difference resolved after 6 weeks and VA did not differ significantly between the groups. In pseudophakic eyes, a deeper anterior chamber depth (ACD) was associated with smaller immediate IOP difference ( = .026; ω = .06). CONCLUSIONS: This study showed that preoperative laser IO might be an alternative to surgical IE, but sufficient postoperative pressure control and appropriate preoperative counseling are crucial as laser iridotomy is associated with a higher risk of peak pressure values > 50 mmHg and immediate pressure differences.
PURPOSE: This study aimed to uncover the mechanism of IGF2BP3/GSDMD axis by modulating JNK signaling activation in eyelid basal cell carcinoma (BCC). METHODS: Human BCC cell line (TE354.T) was transfected vectors targeti...PURPOSE: This study aimed to uncover the mechanism of IGF2BP3/GSDMD axis by modulating JNK signaling activation in eyelid basal cell carcinoma (BCC). METHODS: Human BCC cell line (TE354.T) was transfected vectors targeting IGF2BP3 and GSDMD. Following transfection, changes in cell proliferation, migration, invasion, pyroptosis, and inflammatory response were monitored. Protein expression analysis was done with specific antibodies (IGF2BP3, GSDMD, GSMDM-N, p20, IL-1β, IL-18, JNK, p-JNK, and p-c-JUN). IGF2BP3 and GSDMD co-localization in TE354.T cells were observed. The m6A modification of GSDMD mRNA was detected by gene-specific m6A qPCR assay. Tumor growth was observed in nude mice. RESULTS: By stabilizing GSDMD mRNA, IGF2BP3 reduced eyelid BCC proliferation, invasion, and migration, and increased pyroptosis. IGF2BP3 regulated the expression and translational output of GSDMD in TE354.T cells. IGF2BP3/GSDMD axis acted in BCC by blocking JNK pathway activation. IGF2BP3 inhibited tumor formation by promoting GSDMD stability. CONCLUSIONS: IGF2BP3 enhances GSDMD stability and blocks JNK signaling activation to promote eyelid BCC pyroptosis in an m6A-Dependent Manner.
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 May · PMID 41543258
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PURPOSE: Achromatopsia (ACHM) is a rare hereditary retinal disorder characterized by low vision, photophobia, and nystagmus. Due to its rarity, the relevant literature is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the structu...PURPOSE: Achromatopsia (ACHM) is a rare hereditary retinal disorder characterized by low vision, photophobia, and nystagmus. Due to its rarity, the relevant literature is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the structural and functional retinal changes observed in the ACHM spectrum using multimodal imaging. METHODS: In this prospective cross-sectional study, 62 eyes of 31 patients within the ACHM spectrum who applied to the Low Vision Rehabilitation Unit of Ankara University Faculty of Medicine were evaluated. Assessments included macular pigment optical density (MPOD), microperimetry, contrast sensitivity (CS), fundus autofluorescence (FAF), and optical coherence tomography (OCT). Eyes were classified into five stages based on photoreceptor layer damage. RESULTS: The mean best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 0.85 ± 0.18 logMAR. Fundus examination showed normal findings in 42%, irregular retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in 48%, and atrophic RPE in 10%. Mean MPOD was 1.32 ± 2.27 dB, retinal sensitivity 20.85 ± 4.61 dB, and central macular thickness (CMT) 124.88 ± 59.15 µm. Fixation was extrafoveal in 92% and unstable in 83%. Photoreceptor damage was present in 72% of eyes: stage 1 (28%), stage 2 (13%), stage 3 (14%), stage 4 (19%), and stage 5 (26%). The ellipsoid zone was absent in 59%, foveal hypoplasia in 52%, and hypoautofluorescence in 57%. Significant correlations were observed between ellipsoid zone integrity and age, CMT, and FAF pattern ( = 0.044, = 0.005, < 0.001). CONCLUSION: This study highlights reduced MPOD, photoreceptor damage (72%), ellipsoid zone loss (59%), and foveal hypoplasia (52%) within the ACHM spectrum. The findings of this study may contribute to the literature on structural and functional retinal changes observed in cases within the ACHM spectrum and may be useful in the design of future clinical studies.
Lin Y, Xie B, Lin C
… +4 more, Qiu X, Chen W, Huang D, Huang Z
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 May · PMID 41537384
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PURPOSE: Laser photocoagulation is widely used to treat peripheral retinal pathologies. This study aims to investigate its impact on the macula and identify associated risk factors. METHODS: This prospective observationa...PURPOSE: Laser photocoagulation is widely used to treat peripheral retinal pathologies. This study aims to investigate its impact on the macula and identify associated risk factors. METHODS: This prospective observational study enrolled patients undergoing laser photocoagulation for peripheral retinal degeneration and/or breaks were enrolled. Ocular examinations, including optical coherence tomography (OCT), OCT angiography (OCTA), and multifocal electroretinography (mf-ERG), were conducted at baseline and at 1- and 3-month post-treatment. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests and Pearson's correlation. RESULTS: Thirty-four eyes from 34 patients were included. The foveal avascular zone area significantly enlarged (Δ = 0.21 ± 0.35mm, = 0.038), and mf-ERG implicit times in perifoveal regions were prolonged (R3: Δ = 0.45 ± 0.70 ms, = 0.027; R5: Δ = 0.85 ± 0.72 ms, < 0.001) at 1 month following laser photocoagulation, with both parameters returning to baseline by 3 months. Laser photocoagulation also increased thickness in the parafoveal retinal nerve fiber layer (Δ = 1.72 ± 3.33 μm, = 0.049), inner nuclear layer (Δ = 0.90 ± 1.35 μm, = 0.014), and full-thickness foveal retina (Δ = 11.2 ± 21.1 μm, = 0.043), with changes persisting up to 3 months (Δ = 2.74 ± 2.52 μm, = 0.011; Δ = 0.79 ± 0.79 μm, = 0.017; Δ = 8.51 ± 8.19 μm, = 0.014, respectively). Correlation analysis revealed that both the number of laser spots and total laser energy were positively correlated with macular thickness, while the minimum distance between the laser and the fovea was negatively correlated with macular changes. CONCLUSIONS: Peripheral retinal laser photocoagulation can induce foveal hypoperfusion, macular thickening, and prolonged implicit times. Although most of these changes are generally mild and reversible, macular thickening persisted throughout the 3-month follow-up period. Laser parameters, including the number of spots, energy, and distance from the fovea, are associated with macular changes.
Wang J, Ba L, Ren J
… +4 more, Luan R, Lu S, Wen K, Sun J
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 May · PMID 41536072
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PURPOSE: This study aimed to provide direct evidence of the potential role of N6-methyladenosine (mA) modification in the progression of myopia. We focused on identifying genes that may be involved in scleral remodeling...PURPOSE: This study aimed to provide direct evidence of the potential role of N6-methyladenosine (mA) modification in the progression of myopia. We focused on identifying genes that may be involved in scleral remodeling through mA regulation in myopia. METHODS: We utilized mA methylation immunoprecipitation sequencing (MeRIP-seq) alongside RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) to investigate the levels of mA modification and mRNA expression in the scleras of form-deprived myopic (FDM) guinea pigs. Subsequent bioinformatics analysis was performed to identify the enriched pathways and genes associated with mA modification. RESULTS: Bioinformatic analyses indicated that hypermethylated mRNAs were predominantly associated with the calcium signaling pathway and may participate in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling. Through integrated analysis of MeRIP-seq and RNA-seq data, it was found that more than half of the differentially expressed modified genes (DEGs) exhibiting increased mRNA levels also showed an upregulation of mA modification levels. These genes may play significant roles in the process of myopic scleral remodeling in response to elevated levels of methyltransferase METTL14. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the role of mA methylation, mediated by METTL14, in the regulating of key genes involved in calcium signaling and ECM remodeling during myopia progression. These findings suggest that targeting mA modifications may could offer new therapeutic strategies for the treatment of myopia.
Curr Eye Res
· 2026 May · PMID 41529094
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PURPOSE: To explore the protective effect and underlying mechanism of exogenous αA-crystallin (CRYAA), a molecular chaperone with antioxidant properties, in retinal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury modulation of the Nr...PURPOSE: To explore the protective effect and underlying mechanism of exogenous αA-crystallin (CRYAA), a molecular chaperone with antioxidant properties, in retinal ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury modulation of the Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway. METHODS: , retinal I/R injury was induced in Sprague Dawley rats by transient intraocular pressure elevation, followed by intravitreal CRYAA administration. , human retinal microvascular endothelial cells (HRMECs) were exposed to HO-induced oxidative stress with or without CRYAA treatment. Oxidative markers (ROS, MDA, SOD), apoptosis (TUNEL, Caspase-3), and Nrf2/HO-1 pathway activation were evaluated histopathology, biochemical assays, Western blotting, and flow cytometry. Nrf2 overexpression and siRNA knockdown were performed to validate pathway involvement. RESULTS: CRYAA attenuated retinal edema and structural disorganization in I/R rats, restore partial retinal blood flow, reduced ROS ( < 0.05) and MDA levels, restored SOD activity ( < 0.05), and suppressed apoptosis by downregulating Caspase-3 ( < 0.05). Mechanistically, CRYAA enhanced Nrf2 phosphorylation, nuclear translocation, and HO-1 expression ( < 0.05). Nrf2 overexpression amplified these effects, while Nrf2 silencing abolished CRYAA's protection, confirming pathway dependency. CONCLUSIONS: Exogenous CRYAA mitigates retinal I/R injury by activating the Nrf2/HO-1 axis, reducing oxidative stress, and inhibiting apoptosis. These findings highlight CRYAA's therapeutic potential for ischemic retinal disorders and underscore Nrf2 as a critical mediator of its protective effects.