Müller cells and retinal angiogenesis: critical regulators in health and disease.

Müller cells are the most abundant glial cells in the mammalian retina. Their morphology and metabolism enable them to be in close contact and interact biochemically and physically with almost all retinal cell types, including neurons, pericytes, endothelial cells, and other glial cells, influencing their physiology by releasing bioactive molecules. Studies indicate that Müller glial cells are the primary source of angiogenic growth factor secretion in the neuroretina.

High glucose concentrations induce oxidative stress by inhibiting Nrf2 expression in rat Müller retinal cells in vitro.

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a complication of diabetes. Several studies have implicated oxidative stress as a fundamental factor in the progression of the disease. The nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is one of the main regulators of redox homeostasis.

Retinal Nrf2 expression in normal and early streptozotocin-diabetic rats.

Diabetic retinopathy is the most common cause of vision loss among diabetic patients. Although hyperglycemia produces retinal oxidative stress in long-standing diabetes, the pathogenesis mechanism is unknown. The Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) plays a central role in cell responses against oxidative damage.