Pathologic mechanisms and identifying therapeutic molecular targets in retinopathy: Volume II

Following the success of Ischemic retinopathy: underlying pathologic mechanisms and identifying therapeutic molecular targets, we are pleased to present Volume II of this collection.

The field of retinal research has increasingly highlighted the centrality of metabolic processes in maintaining the retina’s structural and functional integrity. As one of the most metabolically demanding tissues in the body, the retina relies on tightly coordinated nutrient supply and energy utilization to support phototransduction, synaptic signaling, and neuronal health. However, substantial gaps remain in our understanding of how systemic and local metabolic dysregulation—triggered by factors such as aging, obesity, and diabetes—precipitates retinal diseases. Recent studies have revealed that alterations in glucose metabolism, mitochondrial activity, lipid processing, and redox homeostasis can precede and actively drive the course of major degenerative conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma. While anti-VEGF therapies and other interventions have revolutionized the management of vascular complications, current approaches still inadequate address the metabolic underpinnings and neuronal degeneration observed in these pathologies.

This Research Topic aims to deepen our knowledge of the metabolic and oxidative mechanisms underpinning retinal degeneration and to explore promising neuroprotective strategies. We seek to delineate the early molecular events that contribute to retinal pathology, to clarify the interaction between metabolic and inflammatory pathways, and to identify novel genetic or pharmacological targets for intervention. By consolidating evidence across model systems, human studies, and innovative analytical platforms, this collection strives to accelerate the discovery and translation of metabolic interventions into clinical practice.

This Research Topic will consider studies that dissect metabolic dysfunctions and neuroprotective mechanisms across diverse retinal disorders while placing particular emphasis on outer and inner retinal layers. Submissions are expected to examine, either experimentally or analytically, the metabolic contributions to diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, high myopia, and age-related macular degeneration. We welcome original research and review articles, as well as innovative methodological studies. To gather further insights into these complex processes, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Metabolic regulation and dysregulation in retinal cell types
- Mitochondrial dysfunction and its impact on retinal health
- Oxidative stress, redox signaling, and neuronal injury in the retina
- Identification and characterization of neuroprotective molecular targets
- Genetic and pharmacological strategies for metabolic intervention
- Advanced diagnostic and analytical technologies in retinal metabolism
- Integration of metabolic biomarkers for disease prognosis and therapy response

Both original research articles and reviews are encouraged for this Research Topic, alongside methodological and diagnostic innovation studies.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Case Report
• Classification
• Clinical Trial
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Study Protocol
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: Retinal Metabolism, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, Oxidative Stress, Neuroprotection, Retinal Degeneration

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.