Retinal pigment epithelium cell support (RPE support)

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a specialized monolayer of pigmented cells essential for maintaining the health and function of photoreceptors in the eye (Strauss, 2005). Retinal pigment epithelium cell support refers to a therapeutic strategy rather than a single molecular target, focusing on preserving or replacing RPE cells to treat degenerative retinal diseases (Liao et al., 2024). The RPE performs vital roles such as the phagocytosis of shed photoreceptor outer segments, transport of nutrients from the choroid, and regeneration of visual pigments (Bermond et al., 2022). In conditions like dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Stargardt disease, RPE dysfunction leads to secondary photoreceptor loss and eventual blindness (Ambati & Fowler, 2012). Current therapeutic approaches include the transplantation of stem cell-derived RPE cells (e.g., OpRegen) and the delivery of neurotrophic factors to bolster cell survival (Kashani et al., 2018). These interventions aim to restore the metabolic and structural support provided by the RPE to the overlying neurosensory retina. Clinical trials for RPE support often utilize advanced imaging like fundus autofluorescence and optical coherence tomography to monitor the integrity of the cell layer (Schwartz et al., 2015). While promising, these therapies face significant challenges such as immune rejection, surgical risks of subretinal delivery, and the potential for proliferative vitreoretinopathy.

Other names

RPE maintenanceRetinal pigment epithelium preservationRPE cell therapyRPE cell support

Restoration of the RPE monolayer through cell transplantation or trophic supplementation to maintain photoreceptor homeostasis and prevent vision loss (Kashani et al., 2018).