Scientists have found molecules that protect cone cells in the eye from damage. This discovery is important because these cells help us see clearly and lose function in diseases like age-related macular degeneration.
A team from the Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel, led by Botond Roska, studied cone photoreceptors. These cells are in the macula, a part of the eye crucial for activities like reading and seeing colours. If they die, it can result in vision loss, and currently, there are no approved treatments.
The researchers screened over 2,700 compounds using 20,000 human retinal organoids, mini-lab versions of the retina. They found some compounds damage cone cells but also identified molecules that protect them. One mechanism involves blocking a protein called casein kinase 1.
They labelled cone cells to track how long they survived under stress similar to diseases. Two kinase inhibitors kept the cells alive for longer, even in tests on mice, suggesting the results are significant.
The team made their data public, providing information on the compounds and their effects. This could help develop future treatments to preserve vision and assess retinal safety.
By combining new methods, this research moves closer to protecting vision, a key goal in eye health.
