Dual roles of retinal astrocytes in retinal neurodegeneration
10.3980/j.issn.1672-5123.2026.10.07
- VernacularTitle:视网膜星形胶质细胞在视网膜神经退行性病变中的双面角色
- Author:
Yiyang ZHANG
1
;
Jin YAO
1
Author Information
1. The Eye Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, Jiangsu Province, China
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
retinal astrocytes;
neurodegeneration;
oxidative stress;
inflammatory response;
diabetic retinopathy;
glaucoma;
age-related macular degeneration
- From:
International Eye Science
2026;26(10):1725-1730
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
Retinal astrocytes play pivotal roles in regulating neuronal function, maintaining retinal homeostasis, and responding to pathological stress. This review focuses on recent advances in astrocyte heterogeneity, including its spatial distribution and functional states, and discusses the dual roles of pathological processes. Evidence indicates that, during the early stages of glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, and other degenerative retinal disorders, astrocytes exert neuroprotective effects by supporting neuronal metabolism, modulating inflammatory responses, and alleviating oxidative stress. However, persistent disruption of the retinal microenvironment can drive astrocytes toward a pro-inflammatory reactive phenotype. A clearer understanding of these pathophysiological processes and molecular mechanisms may provide a theoretical basis and potential therapeutic direction for retinal neurodegenerative diseases.
