Scientists discover protein that triggers diabetic blindness
Researchers identified LRG1 as a trigger of early diabetic retinopathy; LRG1 constricts retinal microvessels and reduces oxygen supply. Genetic or pharmacologic inhibition of LRG1 prevented retinal damage in mice, suggesting a path toward pre-symptomatic vision-protective therapies.
Why it mattersIn mice, inhibiting LRG1 prevented retinal damage, pointing toward pre-symptomatic therapies to prevent diabetic blindness.