How Bile Acid Receptor Stimulation Could Protect Premature Newborns' Eyesight

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Highlights:

• Stimulation of the farnesoid-X-receptor (FXR) shows potential in protecting the vision of premature newborns affected by retinopathy of prematurity (ROP)
• By enhancing FXR signaling, researchers aim to prevent the death of astrocytes and guide endothelial cells, leading to the formation of functional blood vessels in the eyes
• Drugs such as obeticholic acid and chendeoxycholic acid, already used in medical practice, are being investigated for their ability to activate FXR and potentially offer effective ROP treatments

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a significant concern for premature newborns, often leading to childhood blindness. However, scientists from the Medical College of Georgia have uncovered a potentially groundbreaking solution (1^✔). By stimulating the farnesoid-X-receptor (FXR), a bile acid receptor, researchers believe they can offer earlier and more effective treatments for these vulnerable infants. This article delves into the research conducted by the Medical College of Georgia, highlighting the role of FXR and the use of existing drugs to target this receptor, shedding light on a potential breakthrough in ROP treatment.

Understanding the Significance of Farnesoid-X-Receptor (FXR) in Retinopathy of Prematurity

Premature infants affected by ROP experience diminished FXR expression in two critical cell types involved in normal blood vessel development in the eye: astrocytes and endothelial cells. Astrocytes typically support blood vessel development by secreting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), while also guiding endothelial cell behavior. However, in the stressful environment associated with premature birth, astrocytes undergo apoptosis, leading to improper guidance of endothelial cells. The reduced expression of FXR in these specific cell types during ROP prompted researchers to explore the potential benefits of enhancing FXR signaling. Their hypothesis suggests that by preventing the death of astrocytes through improved FXR signaling, endothelial cells can receive proper guidance, resulting in the development of functional blood vessels and improved vision for premature infants.

Exploring Potential Treatments for Retinopathy of Prematurity

To investigate the therapeutic potential of FXR activation, researchers are studying two drugs: obeticholic acid and chendeoxycholic acid. While these drugs are currently prescribed for other medical conditions, their ability to induce FXR signaling makes them viable candidates for ROP treatment.

‘Protecting the sight of premature newborns: Explore the groundbreaking research on bile acid receptor stimulation for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) treatment. Discover the potential of FXR activation and existing drug repurposing in safeguarding vision. #PreemieHealth #VisionCare’

Obeticholic acid is clinically used to treat liver conditions that involve bile duct destruction. By increasing bile production and elimination in the liver, this drug indirectly affects FXR signaling. Chendeoxycholic acid, a natural bile acid, is also being investigated due to its FXR-inducing properties. It is currently used in clinical settings to dissolve gallstones.

By studying the impact of these drugs on various stages of ROP, researchers aim to identify the optimal treatment approach. Unlike existing treatments that primarily target abnormal blood vessel growth resulting from perceived hypoxia in the retinas of premature infants, FXR activation can work during the period of hyperoxia, promoting normal blood vessel development.

Protective Role of Bile Acids in Retinopathy of Prematurity

The discovery of bile acids in the retina, a finding that surprised and excited researchers, prompted further investigation into their normal function and their role in ROP. Bile acids, primarily known for aiding digestion and cholesterol metabolism, have demonstrated potential protective effects in the eye.

FXR activation through bile acid stimulation has shown positive results in protecting photoreceptor cells, preventing ganglion cell death, and inhibiting cataract formation. Additionally, FXR has been shown to exhibit neuroprotective properties, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress-both destructive factors in ROP.

Long-Term Implications and Future Directions for Retinopathy of Prematurity

While the focus of current ROP treatments lies in identifying and managing the condition in premature infants, understanding the long-term effects of FXR signaling is crucial. Some infants may experience associated vision complications later in childhood, even if they do not develop ROP initially. Research is ongoing to determine the impact of FXR activation on visual acuity, blood vessel integrity, and overall eye health in the long term.

The exploration of bile acid receptor stimulation and the targeting of FXR offers new hope for protecting the vision of premature newborns affected by ROP. By enhancing FXR signaling, researchers aim to provide earlier interventions and promote normal blood vessel development, ultimately improving visual outcomes for these vulnerable infants. Through continued research and the repurposing of existing drugs, the medical community strives to mitigate the long-term effects of ROP and safeguard the vision of premature newborns.

Reference:

1. Bile acid receptor could be innovative target in protecting the vision of premature newborns - (https:jagwire.augusta.edu/bile-acid-receptor-could-be-innovative-target-in-protecting-the-vision-of-premature-newborns/)

Source: Medindia

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