PATHOPHYSIOLOGICAL MECHANISMS OF DIABETIC RETINOPATHY AND NOVEL THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES

Аннотация

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the most serious microvascular complications of diabetes mellitus and remains a leading cause of preventable blindness among working-age populations worldwide. The complex pathophysiological mechanisms underlying DR involve chronic hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, endothelial dysfunction, and neurovascular unit impairment. This article aims to provide a detailed analysis of the molecular and cellular pathways that contribute to the onset and progression of DR, including the roles of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), and chronic inflammation. Furthermore, novel therapeutic strategies such as anti-VEGF agents, corticosteroids, antioxidant therapies, and emerging gene-based and regenerative approaches are discussed. The study emphasizes that an integrative therapeutic model addressing both metabolic control and retinal protection is essential for reducing the burden of DR and improving patients’ quality of life.