BackgroundThe retina is a light-sensitive layer at the rear of the eye that converts light into neuronal impulses to obtain vision. Retinal cells such as the RPE, photoreceptor cells, horizontal cells, bipolar cells, amacrine cells, ganglion cells, and Müller cells have been identified and their major circuitry and connections in the tissue have been summarised in detail recently [1]. The retina is one of the most metabolically active tissues in the body and requires appropriate levels of nutrients and oxygen for normal function [2]. Blood flow disruption and excessive oxygen consumption are leading causes of impaired energy production in the retina and may also promote inflammation, neovascularisation, and even retinal cell death. Other factors like hypertension, high blood sugar level, and inheritance also contribute to disease progression [3,4]. Common retinal diseases include AMD, DR, retinal detachment, and retinitis pigmentosa [5][6][7]. Patients suffering from these diseases have blurred or distorted vision, and their lives can be seriously affected [7]. However, effective treatments are few and current interventions are limited to intravitreal injections of anti-VEGF antibody or corticosteroids, surgery, laser treatment, and/or nutrient supplementations [8,9].