Retinal Degenerative Diseases: Processes and Potential Treatments

Retinal degenerative diseases, a critical area of neurodegenerative research, present unique opportunities for studying neurodegeneration and neuroprotection due to the retina's accessibility and the ability to assess treatments in vivo. These diseases, including various forms of photoreceptor degeneration and glaucoma, are the leading causes of irreversible blindness worldwide. They result from the degeneration of photoreceptors, retinal pigment epithelial cells, or retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), affecting the outer or inner retina, respectively. The heterogeneity and multifactorial nature of these diseases complicate the identification of effective treatments, which are currently non-existent. This poses a significant burden on healthcare systems and economies, especially as these conditions frequently affect adults of working age and life expectancy is increasing. Recent studies have highlighted that photoreceptor degeneration leads to retinal disorganization and complete retinal remodeling, ultimately resulting in the degeneration and death of RGCs. This progression complicates the success of many proposed therapies. Additionally, the role of retinal glia in disease progression, particularly in retinal remodeling and glial seal formation, is increasingly recognized but not yet fully understood.

This Research Topic aims to elucidate the processes occurring in the retina during degenerative diseases, such as neuronal degeneration and glial activation, and to explore potential current and future treatments. The main objectives include answering specific questions about the mechanisms of retinal degeneration, testing hypotheses related to neuroprotection and neuroregeneration, and identifying novel therapeutic targets. By addressing these aims, the research seeks to fill existing gaps in knowledge and contribute to the development of effective treatments for retinal degenerative diseases.

To gather further insights into the complex mechanisms and potential treatments for retinal degenerative diseases, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Mechanisms of photoreceptor and RGC degeneration
- Role of retinal glia in disease progression and retinal remodeling
- Advances in imaging techniques for in vivo assessment of retinal health
- Development and testing of neuroprotective and neuroregenerative therapies
- Genetic and environmental factors contributing to retinal degenerative diseases
- Clinical trials and case studies on emerging treatments
- Biomarkers for early detection and progression monitoring of retinal diseases