Translocator protein (TSPO)-induced ROS production by NADPH oxidases in neovascular age-related macular degeneration (C06)

• Subject Area: Ophthalmology
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 501530074

Our hypothesis is that TSPO and NOX1-derived ROS are markers and effectors that trigger immune responses in neovascular retinal diseases. The overall goal of this project is to increase our understanding of how the TSPO/NOX axis drives retinal inflammatory diseases, such as AMD. To address this, we will identify and characterize in detail the signaling pathways regulating TSPO-induced ROS production by microglia in the laser-induced CNV model using transcriptomics and phosphoproteomics. In addition, we will identify the precise target cells of ROS produced by activated retinal microglia, decipher the molecular mechanisms underlying the detrimental effects of TSPO-induced ROS production on disease outcome and try to modulate that.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 1607: Towards immunomodulatory and anti(lymph)angiogenic therapies for age-related blinding eye diseases
• Applicant Institution: Universität zu Köln
• Project Head: Dr. Anne Wolf