Ouabain Counteracts Retinal Ganglion Cell Death Through Modulation of BDNF and IL-1 Signaling Pathways.

Ouabain is a steroid hormone that binds to the sodium pump (Na, K-ATPase) at physiological (nanomolar) concentrations, activating different signaling pathways. This interaction has been shown to prevent the axotomy-induced death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study, we investigated potential mechanisms by which ouabain promotes RGC survival using primary cultures of rat neural retina.

The trophic effect of ouabain on retinal ganglion cells is mediated by IL-1β and TNF-α.

Ouabain is a steroid hormone that binds to the enzyme Na(+), K(+) - ATPase and stimulates different intracellular pathways controlling growth, proliferation and cell survival. IL-1β and TNF-α are pleiotropic molecules, conventionally regarded as pro-inflammatory cytokines with well-known effects in the immune system. In addition, IL-1β and TNF-α also play important roles in the nervous system including neuroprotective effects.