Aldosterone as a Possible Contributor to Eye Diseases

Abstract

Aldosterone, an effector molecule of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), has been receiving more attention in the field of ophthalmology because of its possible role in the pathogenesis of various eye diseases or abnormalities; potentially, it may even become a target for their treatment. Primary aldosteronism, a typical model of a systemic aldosterone excess, may cause vision loss due to various ocular diseases, such as retinal vein occlusion, central serous chorioretinopathy, and possibly, glaucoma. RAAS components are present in various parts and types of cells present in the eye. Investigations of local RAAS in various animal models of diabetic macular edema, retinal vein occlusion, retinopathy of prematurity, central serous chorioretinopathy, and glaucoma have found evidence that aldosterone or mineralocorticoid receptors may exacerbate the pathology of these disorders. Further studies are needed to elucidate whether the modulation of aldosterone or mineralocorticoid receptors is an effective treatment for preventing vision loss in patients with eye diseases.

RAAS in diabetic retinopathy: mechanisms and therapies

“…Meanwhile, VEGF mediates the breakdown of the BRB to cause diabetic macula edema (DME) and promotes pre-retinal neovascularization, which leads to vitreous hemorrhage, tractional retinal detachment, and neovascular glaucoma ( 104 ). Therefore, intravitreal injection of anti-VEGF agents has become the standard treatment to improve visual acuity in DME ( 105 ).…”

The role of aldosterone in the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy

“…While some kidney-focused clinical studies suggest a deeper perspective, Higashide T et al. found that ROS accumulation can also promote the increase of aldosterone in patients with aldosteronism and eye diseases ( 39 ). However, Reina-Couto et al.…”