Curr. Eye Res. [JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Association Between Pancreatic β-Cell Function and Quantitative OCT Angiography Metrics in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Without Clinical Diabetic Retinopathy.
Guo H, Lu Y, Li J … +5 more , Wu M, Xiao Y, Wan Y, Shi B, Lu P
Curr Eye Res · 2026 May · PMID 41526306 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The study aims to investigate the relationship between pancreatic β-cell function and macular vascular structure and blood flow in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) without clinical signs of diabetic r...
PURPOSE: The study aims to investigate the relationship between pancreatic β-cell function and macular vascular structure and blood flow in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) without clinical signs of diabetic retinopathy (DR). METHODS: This prospective cross-sectional study enrolled 121 type 2 DM patients without clinical DR, representing a total of 240 eyes. The area under the C-peptide release curve (AUCC) derived from the oral glucose tolerance test, fasting serum C-peptide level and the updated Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA2) model were utilized to reflect pancreatic β-cell function. Insulin resistance (IR) was assessed by HOMA2 model. The macular vascular and blood flow parameters of patients were measured by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA). Separate Linear Mixed-Effects Models were employed to analyze the relationship between pancreatic β-cell function indicators and OCTA metrics. RESULTS: In separate multivariate models, AUCC, fasting serum C-peptide level, and HOMA2 estimates of β-cell function (HOMA2-B) each demonstrated a significant positive association with vessel density (VD) measures in the deep capillary plexus (DCP), including total DCP VD, parafoveal DCP VD, and perifoveal DCP VD. CONCLUSIONS: The impaired pancreatic β-cell function is significantly associated with adverse macular vasculature alterations, suggesting that these vascular changes may occur prior to the clinical manifestation of DR in patients with compromised β-cell function. β-cell function markers might help identify patients at risk of early subclinical retinal microvascular changes.
Exosomes Across the Globe - How Essential are They to Ocular Biology, Pathology, and Therapy?
Malek G, Schrader S
Curr Eye Res · 2025 Dec · PMID 41521676 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Mendelian Randomization Study of Age-Related Macular Degeneration and Inflammatory Bowel Disease.
Hua Z, Zhu Q, Yang J … +3 more , Tang M, Yin J, Zhan D
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Apr · PMID 41503694 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To investigate the causal relationship between age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. METHODS: The single nucleotide polymorphism da...
PURPOSE: To investigate the causal relationship between age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) by Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis. METHODS: The single nucleotide polymorphism data of IBD and AMD were obtained from the Integrative Epidemiology Unit (IEU) Open genome-wide association study database. MR analysis contained MR-Egger, weighted median, inverse variance weighted, simple mode, and weighted mode. Sensitivity analysis was executed to ensure the reliability of results, containing heterogeneity test, horizontal pleiotropy test, and leave-one-out analysis. Multivariable Mendelian randomization analysis was carried out to investigate potential confounding factors such as C-reactive protein, smoking, vitamin D deficiency. Genes corresponding to the instrumental variables (IVs) and functional enrichment analysis were executed. RESULTS: MR analysis showed a positive correlation between IBD and AMD ( < 0.05, OR > 1). Sensitivity analyses also did not reveal heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy. C-reactive protein, smoking, and vitamin D deficiency had no significant effect on AMD ( > 0.05). Genes corresponding to IVs were mainly associated with monocyte differentiation, cytokine receptor activity, etc., and act on signaling pathways such as Th17 cell differentiation, and there was a complex network of molecular-cell regulation. CONCLUSION: Our study explored and demonstrated the causal relationship between IBD and AMD through MR analysis, which provided an important reference and direction for future research and treatment related to AMD.
LncRNA H19 Promotes HO-Induced Human Trabecular Meshwork Cell Injury and Extracellular Matrix Production by Regulating the miR-20a-5p/Smad4 Axis.
Wang B, Li X
Curr Eye Res · 2026 May · PMID 41493779 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Primary open-angle glaucoma is characterized by trabecular meshwork cell injury and excessive extracellular matrix deposition. Given the established involvement of long non-coding RNAs in primary open-angle glau...
PURPOSE: Primary open-angle glaucoma is characterized by trabecular meshwork cell injury and excessive extracellular matrix deposition. Given the established involvement of long non-coding RNAs in primary open-angle glaucoma pathogenesis, this study investigates the role and mechanism of long non-coding RNA H19 in mediating trabecular meshwork cell dysfunction and extracellular matrix production. METHODS: Hydrogen peroxide-treated human trabecular meshwork cells were used to establish primary open-angle glaucoma models. Cell viability and apoptosis were assessed via cell counting kit-8 and flow cytometry. Gene/protein expression of H19, Smad4, and extracellular matrix components (fibronectin, collagen I, and laminin) was evaluated by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence. Subcellular H19 localization was determined by nuclear-cytoplasmic fractionation. The H19-miR-20a-5p-Smad4 regulatory axis was validated through luciferase reporter assays and rescue experiments across three characterized human trabecular meshwork cell strains. RESULTS: Hydrogen peroxide exposure induced concentration-dependent human trabecular meshwork cell injury and significantly upregulated H19 and Smad4 expression ( < 0.001). H19 knockdown attenuated oxidative damage, restoring viability ( < 0.001), reducing apoptosis ( < 0.001), and suppressing extracellular matrix deposition ( < 0.001). Mechanistically, H19 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA by binding miR-20a-5p, which targeted Smad4. Smad4 overexpression or miR-20a-5p inhibition abrogated H19 deficiency-mediated protection. Notably, H19 knockdown also reduced transforming growth factor-beta/Smad signaling ( < 0.001) while enhancing nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 antioxidant responses ( < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Long non-coding RNA H19 facilitates hydrogen peroxide-induced human trabecular meshwork cell injury and extracellular matrix deposition primarily by orchestrating the miR-20a-5p/Smad4 axis, with additional modulation of transforming growth factor-beta/Smad and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 pathways.
Lifting the Lid on Tear Film Dynamics: Tear Film Movement Upon Vertical Gaze Change.
Ax T, March de Ribot F, Fries FN … +4 more , Bothe TL, Jensen SO, Millar TJ, Seitz B
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Jan · PMID 41492193 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: When examining the ocular surface, patients are required to look straight ahead and the effects of vertical eye movement on tear film behavior are not considered despite it being natural and common to change gaz...
PURPOSE: When examining the ocular surface, patients are required to look straight ahead and the effects of vertical eye movement on tear film behavior are not considered despite it being natural and common to change gaze without blinking. This exposes parts of the bulbar conjunctiva previously covered by the eyelids and therefore not covered by the tear film during the preceding blink. This study investigates how the tear film behaves when presented with newly exposed areas of ocular surface due to vertical eye movements. METHODS: The tear film dynamics of a sequence of vertical open-eye gaze maneuvers (upgaze-downgaze) were studied in 15 participants with no ocular surface related complaints (OSDI <13) using the TearView infrared camera system. TearView detects the tear film based on natural infrared radiation emitted from the ocular surface. Interferometry was used to examine lipid layer behavior. In a subgroup ( = 3), eyelids were mechanically lifted using a finger to reveal bulbar conjunctiva. RESULTS: Vertical eye movements exposed bulbar conjunctiva not covered by the tear film during the preceding blink. The fully formed tear film reacted by spreading toward the newly uncovered ocular surface area, thereby recoating it. This also occurred when the eyelids were mechanically lifted to reveal ocular surface previously beneath the eyelids. No apparent flow occurred from the menisci onto the ocular surface. CONCLUSIONS: The fully formed tear film is isolated from the meniscal tear and meibum reservoirs (a completely perched tear film). This tear film spontaneously spreads to cover ocular surface area that is newly exposed during vertical eye movements.
Efficacy of Bakuchiol in a Rat Model of Chemical Eye Injury.
Bilmez Tan R, Tekin S, Akman İlik Z … +3 more , Batur M, Seven E, Tan Uygun M
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Apr · PMID 41490374 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To evaluate the therapeutic effects of bakuchiol on clinical and histopathological outcomes in a rat model of corneal alkali burn. METHODS: Corneal alkali burns were induced in the right eyes of 35 male Wistar r...
PURPOSE: To evaluate the therapeutic effects of bakuchiol on clinical and histopathological outcomes in a rat model of corneal alkali burn. METHODS: Corneal alkali burns were induced in the right eyes of 35 male Wistar rats, which were randomized into five groups: control, carbomer, steroid, 0.14 mg/g bakuchiol, and 0.28 mg/g bakuchiol. Examinations were performed under stereomicroscopy with intraperitoneal ketamine anesthesia on days 0, 3, 7, and 14 to assess corneal epithelial defects and opacity; on day 14, corneal neovascularization was additionally evaluated. After the final examination, the eyes were enucleated, and the corneas were processed for hematoxylin-eosin and immunohistochemical staining. Epithelial necrosis, inflammatory cell density, corneal hemorrhage, stromal edema, and staining intensity for VEGF and TNF-α were semi-quantitatively scored. RESULTS: Bakuchiol treatment, particularly at 0.28 mg/g, significantly reduced corneal opacity, neovascularization, hemorrhage, and stromal edema compared with the steroid-treated group. CONCLUSIONS: Bakuchiol demonstrated promising anti-inflammatory and anti-angiogenic effects and may represent a potential adjunctive treatment for corneal chemical injuries.
Emergence of PHMB Resistance in and Observations on Cross-Resistance to Other Frontline Therapeutics.
Mooney R, Whitelaw J, Woods S … +1 more , Henriquez F
Curr Eye Res · 2026 May · PMID 41486482 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: keratitis (AK) is a sight threatening infection of the cornea caused by opportunistic pathogens belonging to the genus . AK is commonly associated with contact lens use, and treatments are currently limited and...
PURPOSE: keratitis (AK) is a sight threatening infection of the cornea caused by opportunistic pathogens belonging to the genus . AK is commonly associated with contact lens use, and treatments are currently limited and ineffective. As such, the emergence of antimicrobial resistance in poses a significant challenge to the management of AK. This study investigates the development of polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) resistance, a frontline therapeutic, in trophozoites and explores potential cross-resistance to hexamidine and voriconazole. METHODS: trophozoites were exposed and maintained in PHMB starting at 2 µg/mL and increasing upon reaching confluence. Cells were subsequently exposed to incrementally higher doses of PHMB in a stepwise manner (2, 4, 5.5, and 7 µg/mL). When sustained growth under PHMB exposure was observed, morphology was assessed by imaging flow cytometry and susceptibility assays were performed by incubating resistant strains with PHMB, hexamidine, and voriconazole for 24 h, and viability determined using alamarBlue. RESULTS: Trophozoites surviving exposure at 2 µg/mL reached confluence within 11 days. Stepwise increases to 4 µg/mL, 5.5 µg/mL, and 7 µg/mL were achieved within 6-7 days at each stage. PHMB-resistant strains exhibited a 9-fold increase in resistance to PHMB relative to naïve cells, alongside significant cross-resistance to voriconazole (159-fold) and hexamidine (8.4-fold). No significant change in trophozoite or cyst morphology was observed relative to the naïve cell line. CONCLUSIONS: These findings represent the first known laboratory-induced PHMB-resistant strains, raising concerns regarding the longevity of current therapeutic options and the potential for cross-resistance to alternative treatments. This highlights the need for clinical vigilance and further investigation into the molecular mechanisms of resistance to better inform treatment strategies.
Genetic Correlation and Mendelian Randomization Analyses Reveal Causal Links Between Metabolic-Associated Diseases or Risk Factors and Major Eye Diseases.
Tang J, Chen J, Li Z … +5 more , Zhang G, Zhu L, Li H, Su W, Qin S
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41449919 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study aims to elucidate the causal relationships and shared genetic architecture between metabolic-associated diseases and risk factors-including hypertension, type 1 diabetes (T1D), type 2 diabetes (T2D),...
PURPOSE: This study aims to elucidate the causal relationships and shared genetic architecture between metabolic-associated diseases and risk factors-including hypertension, type 1 diabetes (T1D), type 2 diabetes (T2D), low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and body mass index (BMI)-and primary vision-threatening eye disorders, involving glaucoma, cataracts, refractive disorders, and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). METHODS: We analyzed genome-wide association study (GWAS) summary statistics from > 500 000 individuals of European ancestry in the FinnGen, UK Biobank, and MRC-IEU databases to ensure adequate sample size. Linkage disequilibrium score regression (LDSC) was applied to estimate genetic correlations, while two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) was performed to assess causal effects. Furthermore, a bidirectional Mendelian Randomization was further conducted to examine the directionality of associations between hypertension and cataracts. RESULTS: This study was the first to reveal genetic correlations and causal effects of hypertension on cataracts, particularly senile cataracts. MR analysis provided evidence that hypertension is causally associated with an increased risk of cataracts, particularly senile cataract, whereas the reverse association was not supported. Additionally, LDL cholesterol was suggested as a protective factor for AMD, while HDL cholesterol was associated with an increased risk. The LDSC analysis also indicated a suggestive genetic correlation between T2D and both cataracts and glaucoma, but not for T1D. CONCLUSION: This study provides comprehensive evidence of genetic correlations and potential causal relationships between metabolic-associated conditions and major eye diseases contributing to vision loss.
Straylight and Pupil Size in Cataract Patients.
de Jong B, van der Meulen IJE, van den Berg TJTP
Curr Eye Res · 2026 May · PMID 41424410 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The decision when to operate cataract can be difficult when there are subjective visual complaints but visual acuity is intact. Straylight measurements can help to improve surgical decision making in this group...
PURPOSE: The decision when to operate cataract can be difficult when there are subjective visual complaints but visual acuity is intact. Straylight measurements can help to improve surgical decision making in this group of patients. It is however unclear if pupil size can affect straylight when cataract is present. In this study we investigate the effects of pupil size on intra-ocular straylight in patients with multiple types of cataract. METHODS: A total of 85 eyes from 51 participants were measured, with an average age of 66 years. Straylight was measured before and after pharmacologic mydriasis with the Oculus C-Quant device. Cataract was graded using the LOCS III classification system. Exploratory analysis using retro-illumination slit-lamp photography was performed to divide between central and peripheral lens opacities. RESULTS: Mean straylight both before and after dilation was 1.57 log(s). Reliable individual effects from dilation ranged between -0.42 and +0.48 log(s). No significant differences were found between cataract subtype groups using mixed model analysis. In nuclear cataract mean straylight levels were 1.71 log(s) undilated and 1.66 log(s) dilated. Mean straylight in cortical cataract was 1.38 log(s) undilated and 1.51 log(s) dilated. Centrally and peripherally located cataracts showed a mean change after mydriasis of -0.08 and +0.07 log(s), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Straylight after pupil dilation showed varying degrees of change, with a tendency to increase in cortical cataract and decrease in nuclear cataract. However, in all forms of cataract both large increases and decreases can be found. These changes were found to be repeatable and reliably measured. Centrality determination from retro-illumination photography can only partly predict these changes.
Exogenous All- Retinoic Acid Induces Similar Longitudinal Changes in Ocular Biometry to Hyperopic Defocus in Mice.
Zhan B, Huang Y, Wang X … +3 more , Ten W, Wang Y, Zhou X
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Apr · PMID 41408734 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This study aims to investigate the longitudinal changes in ocular biometry in mice treated with exogenous all- retinoic acid (atRA) and make comparisons with the lens-induced myopia (LIM) model. MATERIALS AND ME...
PURPOSE: This study aims to investigate the longitudinal changes in ocular biometry in mice treated with exogenous all- retinoic acid (atRA) and make comparisons with the lens-induced myopia (LIM) model. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Male C57BL/6J mice were administered 10 µl of atRA (1 milligram [mg]/milliliter [mL]) every other two days peribulbar injection. The LIM group received monocular -30D lenses. Ocular biometrics were measured on Days 0, 3, 6, 10, and 15 using swept-source optical coherence tomography. Scleral thickness (ST) and retinal arc length (RAL) were measured on histological sections. RESULTS: Both exogenous atRA and negative lenses induced longer axial length (AL) from Day 3 and thinner retinal thickness (RT) from Day 6 (all < 0.05). An increase in vitreous chamber depth (VCD) was noted from Day 3 in atRA-Treated ( = 0.001) eyes and from Day 6 in LIM-Treated eyes ( < 0.001). The interocular difference in lens thickness (LT) varied significantly over time ( = 0.004) in the atRA group. The LT to AL ratios (LT/AL) for atRA-Treated eyes were notably higher than those for the LIM eyes on Days 10 and 15 (all < 0.05). The VCD to AL ratios (VCD/AL) were comparable between the two groups, with notable declines observed in the late stage (all < 0.01). Additionally, both treatment groups showed similarly reduced ST and larger RAL than untreated eyes. CONCLUSIONS: Mice treated with exogenous atRA demonstrated comparable longitudinal ocular biometric alterations to the LIM model, except for the relatively thicker lenses.
Overview of Current and Prospective Applications of the Anterior Lens Capsule in Eye Surgery.
Okál M, Horák M, Baxant AD … +3 more , Penčák M, Studený P, Netuková M
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Apr · PMID 41408722 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: This review provides an outcome-oriented, comprehensive summary of published works on the topic of repurposing the anterior lens capsule (ALC) in various subfields of ophthalmic surgery. Covering a broad spectru...
PURPOSE: This review provides an outcome-oriented, comprehensive summary of published works on the topic of repurposing the anterior lens capsule (ALC) in various subfields of ophthalmic surgery. Covering a broad spectrum of studies ranging from pre-clinical experiments on animal models to blinded prospective clinical trials involving patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: National Institute of Health (NIH) and COCHRANE libraries were comprehensively searched for published works covering the topic of ALC utilization in corneal, retinal, and glaucoma surgical procedures. Studies covering the topic of ALC use unrelated to ophthalmic surgical trials were excluded. A total of 15 studies were included based on the search criteria. Patient follow-up was limited to 18 months. Primary and secondary post-surgical outcomes were evaluated to assess the surgical effectiveness and complication risk of ALC use compared to alternative surgical techniques. RESULTS: ALC is a viable ophthalmic tissue for prospective use in ophthalmic surgery. Despite the limited number of studies conducted on the topic, the results presented have shown promise. Three studies demonstrated superior post-surgical outcomes in ALC-utilizing procedures compared to other ophthalmologic interventions. Remaining studies included in this review have demonstrated potential equivalence of outcomes after ALC-utilizing surgeries to established surgical methods without presenting new limitations and complications. CONCLUSIONS: ALC is an abundant, routinely discarded tissue during cataract surgery. It possesses unique properties of acellularity, optical transparency, and immunologic nativity to the human eye, which enables it to be an excellent donor tissue for ophthalmic surgeries ranging from corneal defect management to prolonging the longevity of anti-glaucoma filtering blebs. The use of ALC autografts in ophthalmic surgery allows for augmentation of standard procedures in phakic patients, delivering satisfactory outcomes and potentially reducing costs. Further research into ALC collection, processing, and long-term storage is needed to enable ALC allograft use in pseudophakic and aphakic patients.
Associations of Microbiota-Friendly Diet with Risk of Diabetic Retinopathy in NHANES: Mediating Role of Oxidative Stress and Inflammation.
Cui Y, Sang Y, Hou B … +3 more , Jin J, Xie D, Wang W
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41408598 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Growing evidence implicates gut microbiota dysbiosis in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR). This study aimed to investigate the associations between dietary index for gut microbiota (DI-GM), a novel m...
PURPOSE: Growing evidence implicates gut microbiota dysbiosis in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy (DR). This study aimed to investigate the associations between dietary index for gut microbiota (DI-GM), a novel metric reflecting gut microbiota composition and diversity, and DR risk, as well as to examine the mediating role of inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers. METHODS: This cross-sectional study analyzed 4,003 diabetic individuals (mean age 59 years, 51.21% men) from 1999-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. DI-GM was derived from self-reported 24-hour dietary recalls. Mediation analysis was used to investigate the role of inflammation (neutrophils, lymphocytes, and alkaline phosphatase) and oxidative stress (gamma-glutamyl transferase, uric acid, and total bilirubin) biomarkers in the effects of DI-GM on DR prevalence. Binary logistic regression analysis was adopted to explore the association of DI-GM and DR prevalence. RESULTS: The prevalence of DR was 19.64%. Multivariate-adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence intervals) for the association between DI-GM and DR prevalence was 0.73 (0.68-0.79). Restricted cubic spline curves showed a non-linear inverse relationship between DI-GM and DR prevalence. Subgroup analysis indicated that the association between DI-GM and DR prevalence was more pronounced in participants with a body mass index > 25 kg/m. Alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin mediated 10.27% and 9.45% of the effects of DI-GM scores on DR prevalence. CONCLUSIONS: Adherence to microbiota-friendly diet was associated with a lower DR prevalence, especially among individuals with overweight or obesity. Alkaline phosphatase and total bilirubin may be associated with the gut microbiota-retina interactions in DR.
Regional Changes in Retinal and Choroidal Thickness in Lens-Induced Myopic Guinea Pigs.
Zhang X, Wang K, Wang X … +1 more , Hao R
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Apr · PMID 41392550 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To investigate the variations in retinal thickness and choroidal thickness at different distances from the optic disk in the guinea pigs. METHODS: Twenty 3-week-old pigmented guinea pigs were randomly divided in...
PURPOSE: To investigate the variations in retinal thickness and choroidal thickness at different distances from the optic disk in the guinea pigs. METHODS: Twenty 3-week-old pigmented guinea pigs were randomly divided into a normal control group and a lens-induced myopia group. The normal control group received no intervention, while the lens-induced myopia group wore a -10D lens on the right eye to induce myopia and a 0D lens on the left eye as control. Refraction, axial length, corneal curvature radius, vitreous chamber depth, retinal thickness, and choroidal thickness were measured at baseline, 2 and 4 weeks. Centered on the optic disk, concentric circles with radii of 1000, 1500, 2000, and 2500 μm were drawn using Image J software (Bethesda, MD) to partition the retina and choroid. RESULTS: After 4 weeks, lens-induced myopia-eyes showed lower refraction (lens-induced myopia vs. normal control, -1.38 ± 0.91D vs. 2.64 ± 0.76D, < 0.0001), retinal thickness (lens-induced myopia vs. normal control, 149.14 ± 4.64 μm vs. 159.63 ± 4.64 μm, < 0.0001) and choroidal thickness (39.07 ± 3.30 μm vs. 45.80 ± 5.32 μm, < 0.01), and increased axial length (lens-induced myopia vs. normal control, 8.34 ± 0.20 mm vs. 8.01 ± 0.16 mm, < 0.0001) and vitreous chamber depth (lens-induced myopia vs. normal control, 3.87 ± 0.11 mm vs. 3.50 ± 0.11 mm, < 0.0001) compared with the normal control group and Fellow-eye. At week 4, retinal thickness at all positions of the lens-induced myopia-eye differed from normal control and Fellow-eye, while choroidal thickness differed only at 1500 μm and 2000 µm. Thinning of retinal thickness and choroidal thickness are both at distances of 1500 μm and 2000 μm. Mean retinal thickness and choroidal thickness correlated positively with refraction, but the changes in retinal thickness and choroidal thickness at each position are not correlated with the changes in RE. CONCLUSION: The structural changes in the retina and choroid during myopia progression are region-specific rather than uniform across the posterior pole.
Independent Conjunctival and Retinal Microcirculatory Improvements Following Ocufolin Supplementation in Mild Diabetic Retinopathy.
Dai Y, Hoover A, Wan L … +4 more , Townsend JH, Zohar Y, Jiang H, Wang J
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Apr · PMID 41392492 · Full text
PURPOSE: To determine whether conjunctival and retinal microcirculatory improvements induced by Ocufolin supplementation are independently regulated in mild non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (MDR). METHODS: Eighteen...
PURPOSE: To determine whether conjunctival and retinal microcirculatory improvements induced by Ocufolin supplementation are independently regulated in mild non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy (MDR). METHODS: Eighteen MDR patients (18 eyes) received Ocufolin for six months. Conjunctival flow rate (Q) and vessel density (CVD) were measured using a functional slit‑lamp biomicroscope. Retinal blood flow (RBF) and vessel densities in the superficial (SVP), deep (DVP), and total retinal vascular network (RVN) were obtained using retinal function imaging and OCT angiography. Measurements were taken at baseline, 4 months, and 6 months. Mean values from both eyes were averaged and correlations between conjunctival and retinal parameters were analyzed. RESULTS: Q increased significantly from 91.71 ± 34.53 pl/s at baseline to 119.81 ± 40.75 pl/s at 4 months and 138.70 ± 75.37 pl/s at 6 months ( < 0.05). RBF also rose from 2.27 ± 0.71 nl/s to 2.78 ± 1.00 nl/s and 3.20 ± 0.89 nl/s ( < 0.05). Vessel densities (CVD, SVP, DVP, RVN) did not change significantly ( > 0.05). RBF and Q were correlated at baseline, but not at the fourth or sixth month. No other significant correlations were found between conjunctival (Q or CVD) and retinal (RBF or vessel density) metrics at any time point ( > 0.05). CONCLUSION: As the first study to assess post‑supplementation correlations between conjunctival and retinal microcirculation in MDR, the study's findings show that Ocufolin improved blood flow in both tissues. These results support using conjunctival and retinal measurements as complementary biomarkers in MDR evaluation.
ROS-NLRP3 Axis in Intestinal Epithelial Cells is Involved in the Development of Autoimmune Uveitis.
Shi L, Xu S, Cheng Y … +3 more , Wu C, Mao X, Huang J
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Apr · PMID 41392486 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Uveitis is a irreversible blinding eye disease with unknown mechanism. The imbalance of Treg/Th17 caused by the interaction of genetics and environment is the core mechanism of the occurrence and development of...
PURPOSE: Uveitis is a irreversible blinding eye disease with unknown mechanism. The imbalance of Treg/Th17 caused by the interaction of genetics and environment is the core mechanism of the occurrence and development of uveitis. We aimed to confirm that intestinal immune imbalance aggravates uveitis. METHODS: The experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) model was established by immunizing mice with IRBP1-20. Flow cytometry was used to detect the expression of CD4 + T lymphocytes, dendritic cells and memory CD4 + T cells in the intestinal lamina propria on days 7 and 14 of induction. Fitc-dextran test was used to detect intestinal permeability, and RT-PCR was used to detect the expression of occludin and ZO-1 in intestinal epithelial cells. The ROS level in intestinal epithelial cells was detected by ROS probe, and the expression levels of NLRP3 inflammasome, caspase-1 and IL-1β in intestinal epithelial cells were detected by WB. In addition, antioxidant was administered intraperitoneal injection to induce protection against EAU, clinical scores were used to assess disease progression. Flow cytometry was used to detect the proportion of Th17 and Treg cells in the mesenteric draining lymph nodes. RESULTS: In the early stages of EAU, CD4+ T cells, dendritic cells, and memory CD4+ T cells were observed in the intestinal lamina propria. Additionally, dysfunction of the intestinal epithelial barrier was characterized by increased FITC-dextran permeability and decreased occludin and ZO-1 expression, highlighting its role in the pathogenesis of EAU. Notably, we also detected elevated levels of ROS, NLRP3 inflammasome, caspase-1, and IL-1β in the intestinal epithelium of EAU mice. Antioxidant treatment in EAU mice demonstrated a protective effect by inhibiting the expression of ROS, NLRP3, caspase-1, and IL-1β in intestinal epithelial cells. CONCLUSIONS: Activation of the intestinal ROS-NLRP3 axis leads to a disruption in the balance between Teff cells and Treg cells, contributing to the pathogenesis of uveitis.
Keratometry and the Central Radius with Aspheric Corneal Surfaces.
Langenbucher A, Wendelstein J, Cayless A … +2 more , Hoffmann P, Szentmáry N
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Apr · PMID 41383057 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To develop a simple concept for deriving the central corneal radius (RC) from the keratometry (K) or simulated keratometry (SimK) radius (RS) and corneal asphericity (QC), and to show the differences RC-RS based...
PURPOSE: To develop a simple concept for deriving the central corneal radius (RC) from the keratometry (K) or simulated keratometry (SimK) radius (RS) and corneal asphericity (QC), and to show the differences RC-RS based on a large dataset of measurements from a modern anterior segment tomographer. METHODS: Comparing the local slopes of surface representations with a conoid and a reference sphere at the location of a keratometry measurement (diameter KD), RC and RC-RS can be derived as a function of RS, QC and KD. The differences RC-RS were evaluated for a large dataset containing measurements from the Casia 2 tomographer made before cataract surgery. RESULTS: Depending on QC and KD, RC could deviate from the measured RS by up to 0.1 mm. With prolate corneas RS overestimates RC, and with oblate corneas RS underestimates RC. For example, with a typical cornea with RS = 7.7 mm and QC = -0.22 and a keratometer measuring at KD = 3 mm the central cornea is 0.0322 mm steeper (RC = 7.6678 mm) compared to keratometric measurement. Based on the dataset, the 95% confidence interval of RC-RS with KD = 3 mm was -0.0976 to +0.0265 mm. CONCLUSIONS: For corneal representations with a conoid surface or where central corneal radius is required e.g. for paraxial calculations, the keratometric radius of curvature could easily be converted to the central radius based on corneal asphericity and the keratometric zone diameter. With large positive or negative values of QC the differences RC-RS could be clinically relevant.
TSLP-Associated Allergic Conjunctiva Inflammation in a Novel Mouse Model Induced by Dual Antigens: Orchard Grass and Alternaria.
Hirota A, Shoji J, Inada N … +2 more , Tomioka A, Yamagami S
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Apr · PMID 41363224 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To investigate innate and adaptive immune responses in allergic conjunctivitis induced by simultaneous sensitization with Orchard grass and antigens. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An experimental allergic conjunctivit...
PURPOSE: To investigate innate and adaptive immune responses in allergic conjunctivitis induced by simultaneous sensitization with Orchard grass and antigens. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An experimental allergic conjunctivitis (EAC) mouse model was developed by instilling mixed antigen solutions of Orchard grass and antigens after sensitization intraperitoneal administration of a mixed antigen solution. BALB/cj mice were divided into four groups based on sensitization and number of antigen eye drop instillations: (1) A1 group (single instillation without intraperitoneal administration), (2) S1 group (single instillation with intraperitoneal administration), (3) M1 group (three instillations with intraperitoneal administration), (4) C group (negative control with receiving neither instillation nor intraperitoneal administration). Clinical observations and histological examinations for eosinophils were performed, and eosinophil density in the conjunctival tissue was quantified. Gene expression levels of thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP), interleukins (IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, IL-16, and IL-33), and CCL11/eotaxin-1 in the conjunctiva were evaluated using real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: The clinical symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis were observed in the A1, S1, and M1 groups. Eosinophil density at 1 h after the last instillation was significantly higher in the A1, S1, and M1 groups compared to the C group ( < 0.01), with the M1 group showing higher density than the S1 group ( < 0.01). Conjunctival TSLP messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels were increased in the sensitized (S1 and M1) groups compared to the C group ( < 0.01 and < 0.05, respectively), with the M1 group exhibiting higher expression than the S1 group ( < 0.01). Additionally, mRNA expression levels of IL-16 and CCL11 in the M1 group were significantly higher than those in the A1 group. CONCLUSIONS: Allergic conjunctivitis induced by Orchard grass and antigens is characterized by early eosinophil infiltration, and TSLP upregulation exacerbates the allergic inflammation in the conjunctiva.
Biomarkers and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies in HSK: Bridging Diagnostics and Treatment.
Gagan S, Joseph J
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Mar · PMID 41363219 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: Herpes simplex keratitis (HSK) remains a major global cause of corneal blindness, with frequent viral recurrences leading to progressive corneal damage despite the use of antivirals and corticosteroids. This rev...
PURPOSE: Herpes simplex keratitis (HSK) remains a major global cause of corneal blindness, with frequent viral recurrences leading to progressive corneal damage despite the use of antivirals and corticosteroids. This review aims to highlight the limitations of current therapeutic strategies and evaluate emerging prognostic and diagnostic biomarkers that may enable earlier detection, improved disease monitoring, and personalized treatment approaches in HSK. METHODS: A comprehensive review of recent literature was conducted, focusing on studies examining the pathophysiology of HSK, current treatment challenges, and the role of emerging biomarkers in viral entry, replication, inflammation, and corneal tissue remodeling. Particular emphasis was placed on evaluating the clinical utility of aptamer-based detection tools, heparanase activity assays, and matrix metalloproteinase profiles in diagnosing and predicting HSK severity and recurrence. RESULTS: Evidence indicates that while antivirals and corticosteroids remain essential for managing acute HSK episodes, their effectiveness is limited by high recurrence rates and the adverse effects associated with prolonged steroid use. Biomarkers such as aptamers, heparanase, and matrix metalloproteinases show strong potential as tools for early detection, monitoring viral activity, and assessing disease severity. These biomarkers correlate with key pathogenic mechanisms, suggesting their utility in therapeutic strategies. CONCLUSION: Conventional HSK management is hindered by treatment-related complications. Integrating these biomarkers into clinical practice may help preserve corneal structure, and ultimately improve visual outcomes for patients with HSK.
Macromolecular Differences in the Extracellular Matrix Between Normal and Keratoconus Human Corneas: An Study.
Peres MB, Covre JL, da Rosa LR … +4 more , Cristovam PC, Cavalheiro RP, Michelaccci YM, Campos M
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Apr · PMID 41363202 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: To analyze proteoglycans and other extracellular matrix macromolecules from normal (NL) and keratoconus (KC) human corneas. METHODS: Corneas from eye banks (NL) and penetrating keratoplasty (KC) were obtained. H...
PURPOSE: To analyze proteoglycans and other extracellular matrix macromolecules from normal (NL) and keratoconus (KC) human corneas. METHODS: Corneas from eye banks (NL) and penetrating keratoplasty (KC) were obtained. Halves of the corneas were fixed and prepared for immunofluorescence using confocal microscopy; the other halves were subjected to macromolecule extraction with GuHCl for protein quantification, macromolecule identification by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS-PAGE) and western blotting, and quantification by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). RESULTS: In the study population ( = 8 for NL and = 12 for KC), there was no difference in sex, laterality, wet weight, or preservation time, but only in age. Western blotting detected keratan sulfate (KS), decorin, and lumican in both groups, with structural differences in decorin in the KC group. The mean protein concentration by corneal wet weight was significantly lower in the KC group. The mean concentrations of decorin, lumican, and KS did not show any difference between the groups when normalized by wet weight but showed a higher concentration in the KC group when normalized by μg of extracted protein. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed a similar macromolecular distribution among the groups. CONCLUSIONS: In corneas with KC, non-collagenous proteins decreased without affecting decorin, lumican, or KS levels, which were relatively increased. In addition, decorin was highly glycosylated.
Visual Function in Children with ADHD: Clinical Findings and the Mediating Role of Psychostimulant Medication.
Molina R, Vera J, Ortiz C … +3 more , Molina-Carballo A, Jiménez R, Redondo B
Curr Eye Res · 2026 Apr · PMID 41363151 · Publisher ↗
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the visual function, using standard optometric clinical procedures, between children with ADHD and healthy controls, and to examine the mediating role of psychostimulant...
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to compare the visual function, using standard optometric clinical procedures, between children with ADHD and healthy controls, and to examine the mediating role of psychostimulant medication. This work aims to provide clinically relevant evidence that may contribute to a better management of children with ADHD in eye care settings. METHODS: A total of 112 children aged 6 to 14 years old were divided into three different groups: 58 non-medicated ADHD children, 22 medicated ADHD children, and 32 age-matched controls. A series of visual variables commonly assessed in clinical practice (i.e. refractive error, visual performance, accommodation, and binocular system) were measured according to standard procedures. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences were observed for contrast sensitivity (-value = 0.014), with the control group showing better results. Regarding accommodative and binocular parameters, only the accommodative facility showed a statistically significant ( = 0.048) tendency toward a worse ability to change accommodative focus in children with ADHD compared to controls. Psychostimulant treatment did not have any effect on visual function ( > 0.05 in all cases). CONCLUSIONS: From all the variables assessed, only accommodation facility and contrast sensitivity appear to differ from the control group, and these appear to be independent of psychostimulant treatment in children with ADHD.
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