T.H.W Huang
NSW 2006
Australia
Research Article
Modulation of RAGE and the Downstream Targets of RAGE Signaling Cascades by Taurine in Lycium Barbarum (Goji Berry): Protection of Human Retinal Pigment Epithelial Barrier Function and its Potential Benefit in Diabetic Retinopathy
Author(s): M.K Song, B. D. Roufogalis and T.H.W HuangM.K Song, B. D. Roufogalis and T.H.W Huang
Background: Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) barrier disruption is an early event in diabetic retinopathy (DR). However, the biochemical details of its pathophysiology and treatment options are unclear. Taurine is reported to be beneficial in DR and is abundant in the fruit of Lycium barbarum (Goji Berry, LB). Hence, we have investigated the effect of taurine pure compound and an extract of LB extract rich in taurine on a model of DR, the ARPE-19 cell line treated with high glucose, and whether their effects on RPE barrier disruption by glucose may contribute to protection against DR.
Methods:The levels of NF-κB and ICAM-1activity were measured by luciferase reporter gene analysis. Protein levels of RAGE and VEGF were determined by Western blot analysis. VEGF secretion levels were analysed by ELISA. The barrier func.. View More»
