A protein that initiates diabetic retinopathy has been identified, offering hope for early intervention before vision loss occurs.
LRG1, a protein linked to vascular constriction, initiates retinal damage in diabetic retinopathy by reducing oxygen supply to the eye. In preclinical studies using diabetic mouse models, blocking LRG1 prevented early-stage retinal degeneration and preserved visual function.
Dr. Giulia De Rossi, a lead researcher, stated, "Our discovery shows that diabetic eye disease starts earlier than we thought... Targeting this protein could give us a way to protect vision before serious damage occurs."
Current treatments targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)—which acts later in disease progression—remain effective for only half of patients and cannot reverse existing damage.
The study clarifies that LRG1 operates at an earlier stage, establishing a distinct therapeutic pathway. A drug candidate targeting LRG1 is now in preclinical development, with potential human trials anticipated in the near future.
Prof. John Greenwood, commenting on the findings, noted, "This study delivers vital insight... therapeutic targeting of LRG1 has real clinical potential."
The research was funded by Diabetes UK, Moorfields Eye Charity, and Wellcome, and published in Science Translational Medicine. (DOI:10.1126/scitranslmed.adn6047).
Source: Sciencedaily