Role of the AMPK signalling pathway in the aetiopathogenesis of ocular diseases

Abstract

Background AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) plays a precise role as a master regulator of cellular energy homeostasis. AMPK is activated in response to the signalling cues that exhaust cellular ATP levels such as hypoxia, ischaemia, glucose depletion and heat shock. As a central regulator of both lipid and glucose metabolism, AMPK is considered to be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of various diseases, including eye disorders. Objective To review all the shreds of evidence concerning the role of the AMPK signalling pathway in the pathogenesis of ocular diseases. Method Scientific data search and review of available information evaluating the influence of AMPK signalling on ocular diseases. Results Review highlights the significance of AMPK signalling in the aetiopathogenesis of ocular diseases, including cataract, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, retinoblastoma, age-related macular degeneration, corneal diseases, etc. The review also provides the information on the AMPK-associated pathways with reference to ocular disease, which includes mitochondrial biogenesis, autophagy and regulation of inflammatory response. Conclusion The study concludes the role of AMPK in ocular diseases. There is growing interest in the therapeutic utilization of the AMPK pathway for ocular disease treatment. Furthermore, inhibition of AMPK signalling might represent more pertinent strategy than AMPK activation for ocular disease treatment. Such information will guide the development of more effective AMPK modulators for ocular diseases. [Formula: see text]

Altered Expressions of Transfer RNA-Derived Small RNAs and microRNAs in the Vitreous Humor of Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy

“…AMPK pathway also regulates metabolism and protects cells from pathogenic alterations in DR ( 29 ). It has been reported that the AMPK signaling pathway is involved in the etiopathogenesis of many ocular diseases, including DR ( 30 ). Song et al.…”

“…AMPK pathway also regulates metabolism and protects cells from pathogenic alterations in DR (29). It has been reported that the AMPK signaling pathway is involved in the etiopathogenesis of many ocular diseases, including DR (30). Song et al demonstrated that stimulation of AMPK signaling pathway attenuate diabetes-induced photoreceptor degeneration through regulation of autophagy and mitochondrial function (31).…”

From Kinases to Diseases: Investigating the Role of AMPK in Human Pathologies

“…In this regard, pharmacological activation of AMPK by AICAR treatment has been shown to downregulate cytoskeletal and ECM proteins in primary human trabecular meshwork cells by phosphorylating RhoA at Ser188 [159]. In addition, ocular hypertension, which is characterized by increased intraocular pressure, also triggers AMPK activation and contributes to RGC loss [160]. Furthermore, the spatiotemporal expression of MAPKs in the retina and optic nerve has also been implicated in the pathogenesis of glaucoma with increased intraocular pressure.…”