TUDCA Protects Photoreceptors from Cell Death after Retinal Detachment
Author Information
Author(s): Mantopoulos Dimosthenis, Murakami Yusuke, Comander Jason, Thanos Aristomenis, Roh Miin, Miller Joan W., Vavvas Demetrios G.
Primary Institution: Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School
Hypothesis
Can systemic administration of tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA) protect photoreceptors from cell death after experimental retinal detachment?
Conclusion
TUDCA preserved photoreceptors after retinal detachment and decreased oxidative stress and caspase activity.
Supporting Evidence
- TUDCA treatment significantly reduced TUNEL-positive cells compared to the control group.
- TUDCA preserved the outer nuclear layer thickness after retinal detachment.
- TUDCA treatment decreased oxidative stress markers in the retina.
Takeaway
TUDCA is a substance that helps protect eye cells from dying when they get separated from their support, which can happen in certain eye problems.
Methodology
Rats underwent retinal detachment and were treated with TUDCA or vehicle; cell death was assessed using TUNEL staining.
Limitations
The protective effect of TUDCA may be limited as it does not affect all pathways of cell death.
Participant Demographics
Adult male Brown Norway rats, weighing 200–250 g.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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