Diabetic retinopathy in focus: Update on treatment advances, pharmaceutical approaches, and new technologies.

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

• Level A · Stronger Clinical Evidence
• Level B · Emerging clinical evidence with positive signals
• Level C · Early human research exploring benefits
• Level D · Scientific groundwork from lab and animal studies
• Emerging · Emerging topic under active research

Abstract (original English)

This review provides an updated overview of the pathogenesis, classification, current management, and emerging therapies for diabetic retinopathy (DR). DR development involves dysregulation of the polyol pathway, formation of advanced glycation end products, activation of protein kinase C, and upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Disruption of the retinal neurovascular unit, including neurons, glial cells, and vascular elements, also plays a pivotal role, leading to microvascular damage, neurodegeneration, and inflammation. DR progresses from non-proliferative (NPDR) to proliferative stages (PDR) characterized by retinal neovascularization. Management emphasizes glycemic and blood pressure control, with advanced stages treated using laser photocoagulation, vitrectomy, and intravitreal anti-VEGF injections. Novel imaging technologies like optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and electroretinography (ERG) enable early diagnosis and disease monitoring. Genetic factors, including VEGF polymorphisms and genes linked to oxidative stress and angiogenesis, significantly influence DR susceptibility. Innovative treatments under investigation include nanotechnology-based drug delivery, microRNA-targeted therapies, and AAV-mediated gene therapies aimed at anti-angiogenic pathways. Stem cell-based strategies utilizing adipose, bone marrow, amniotic, and umbi

Evidence level

Evidence from laboratory and animal studies provides groundwork for understanding mechanisms and potential before human studies continue.

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