Age-Related Changes in the Retinal Pigment Epithelium and Choroid
Author Information
Author(s): Chen Huiyi, Liu Bin, Thomas J. Neufeld, Arthur H.
Primary Institution: Forsythe Laboratory for the Investigation of the Aging Retina, Department of Ophthalmology, Northwestern University School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
Hypothesis
Normal aging of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)/choroid provides a background for the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Conclusion
The RPE/choroid in old mice has become immunologically active, which may contribute to the development of AMD.
Supporting Evidence
- 315 genes were differentially expressed with age, mostly related to immune responses and inflammation.
- Leukocyte extravasation and complement pathways were significantly upregulated in aged RPE/choroid.
- Chemokine ligand 2 (Ccl2) levels were increased in aged RPE/choroid, suggesting it attracts immune cells.
Takeaway
As mice get older, their eye tissues start to attract more immune cells, which might lead to eye problems like AMD.
Methodology
The study compared gene expression profiles, protein levels, and histology of the RPE/choroid from young and old mice using microarray analysis and RT-PCR.
Participant Demographics
C57BL/6 male mice, aged 4 months (young) and 26 months (old).
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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