by A groundbreaking technology with the potential to effectively treat ischemic retinopathy in premature infants and diabetic patients has been developed by Professor Byoung Heon Kang and his research team at the Department of Biological Sciences at UNIST, in collaboration with Professor Dong Ho Park’s team at Kyungpook National University Hospital.
Ischemic retinopathy is a condition characterized by the breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier and abnormal blood vessel growth, which often leads to vision impairment and loss. The researchers have made a significant discovery regarding the role of a mitochondrial chaperone, tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated protein 1 (TRAP1), in the pathogenesis of ischemic retinopathy.
By conducting experiments involving genetic Trap1 ablation and treatment with small molecule TRAP1 inhibitors such as mitoquinone (MitoQ) and SB-U015, the research team successfully alleviated retinal pathologies in mouse models that mimicked ischemic retinopathies.
This therapeutic effect was attributed to the degradation of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α), a transcription factor implicated in the breakdown of the blood-retinal barrier and abnormal blood vessel growth. The degradation of HIF1α was facilitated by the opening of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore and the activation of the calcium-dependent protease calpain-1.
The findings of this research have been published in the journal Advanced Science.
These groundbreaking discoveries offer new possibilities for innovative treatments against ischemic retinopathy, including retinopathy of prematurity and proliferative diabetic retinopathy. The technology focuses on targeting and regulating the abnormal activation of HIF1α and mitochondria under hypoxic (low oxygen) conditions, providing a transformative approach to addressing the underlying causes of retinal diseases. Moreover, unlike conventional treatment methods, this technology can be easily administered using ophthalmic drugs, making it accessible to a wider range of patients.
Professor Kang explains, “The excessive production of angiogenic factors in retinopathy is closely linked to mitochondrial properties. By suppressing the expression of the TRAP1 protein, we can improve the condition of retinopathy.”
The therapeutic substance, currently being developed by Smartin Bio Inc., a startup company founded by Professor Byoung Heon Kang, is currently undergoing non-clinical trials.
The successful development of this technology holds great promise in revolutionizing the treatment landscape for ischemic retinopathy, offering exceptional efficacy and convenient usability that surpasses the limitations of existing treatments. As further clinical trials and development continue to progress, this innovation brings hope for a brighter future for patients suffering from retinopathy.
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1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
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