Progress in programmed cell death of RPE cells in age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindness in the elderly worldwide and is characterized by degeneration of the photoreceptor, retinal pigment epithelium, Bruch membrane and choriocapillaris complex.Impairment of RPE cell function is an early and critical event in the molecular pathways leading to clinically relevant AMD changes.Programmed cell death (PCD) plays an important role in response to stress and regulation of homeostasis and disease.In recent years, multiple studies have shown that apoptosis, pyroptosis, necroptosis and ferroptosis are likely involved in RPE cell PCD and correlate with the onset and development of AMD.There may be interaction or synergy between the various death pathways.This article reviewed the pathogenic mechanism of apoptosis, pyroptosis, necroptosis and ferroptosis in retinal pigment epithelial cell and their research progress in AMD, which might provide new approaches for the prevention and treatment of AMD.

Age-related macular degeneration; Retinal pigment epithelium; Programmed cell death; Interferon