Proinflammatory Cytokines Trigger the Onset of Retinal Abnormalities and Metabolic Dysregulation in a Hyperglycemic Mouse Model.

Proinflammatory cytokines accelerated the development of vascular damage in the eyes of hyperglycemic mice. Significant changes were observed in retinal structure, function, and metabolic homeostasis. These findings support the idea that with the onset of inflammation in DR, there is a deficit in metabolism. Therefore, early intervention to prevent inflammation-induced retinal changes in diabetic patients may improve the disease outcome.