LXR as a Novel Therapeutic Target in DR
Results from large clinical trials demonstrate a strong association between lipid abnormalities and progression of the most common microvascular complication, diabetic retinopathy (DR). We found that activation of a master regulator of cholesterol metabolism, the nuclear hormone receptors liver X receptors (LXRα/LXRβ), prevents DR in rodent models. In this application, we seek to understand the mechanisms responsible for the beneficial effects of LXR agonists on retina and on bone marrow (BM) to preserve the function of reparative cells while reducing inflammatory cell.
• Any man or woman between the ages of 21- 98 years of age will be eligible to participate. To participate in the study as a study subject we will require: a) the subject must either carry the diagnosis of diabetes or be a healthy aged control and b) the patient be willing and have the ability to cooperate with the protocol.