Biomarkers of Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy

The purpose of this project is to characterize the cellular composition and molecular markers of PDR. Previous studies have shown that proteins seen in tissue ischemia, such as endothelin-1 (ET-1) have been detected in ERMs. We hypothesize that ERMs from patients with PDR will have higher levels of expression of ET-1 and its receptors, ETA and ETB, compared to idiopathic (non-PDR) ERMs. Furthermore, we hypothesize that markers for fibrosis and angiogenesis, such as SMA and IB4, respectively, will also be expressed in greater amounts in PDR ERMs. Finally, we seek to identify specific cell types found in ERMs of PDR and of idiopathic origin. Preliminary studies have suggested that PDR and idiopathic ERMs are cellular but differ in cell makeup (Figure 1). By investigating with markers of cells including myofibroblasts, endothelial cells, and retinal glial cells, this study hopes to distinguish the cellular differences between PDR and idiopathic ERMs.