Dec 2, 2019 · An international research collaboration has discovered that a deficiency of the amino acid serine is associated with the accumulation of certain toxic lipids in the blood and ret­ina, causing photoreceptor apoptosis in macular telangiectasia (MacTel) type 2. 1

Aug 26, 2024 · We demonstrate that circulating serine is the primary supplier of serine to the eye, highlighting the importance of systemic sources (e.g., liver, kidney, and diet). De novo synthesis from glucose by PHGDH and, to a lesser extent, glycine …

Many basic physiological functions of the retina require serine. Serine-derived sphingolipids and phosphatidylserine for phagocytosis by the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and neuronal crosstalk of the inner retina via D-serine require proper serine metabolism.

Jan 12, 2020 · The macula is a type of nerve tissue that works to give sharp central vision to read and see fine details. There is evidence that an amino acid called serine plays a role in the cause MacTel. 1. How does serine relate to MacTel? Serine is an amino acid that is used by the body to build proteins and lipids.

Columbia researcher uncovers gene that solidifies the link between macular telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel) and serine deficiency and points the way to effective treatment.

Oct 1, 2024 · Here, we characterize how serine, glycine, and one-carbon (SGOC) metabolism fluxes across the eye, liver, and kidney sustain retinal amino acid levels and function.

Sep 11, 2019 · A reduction in serine and glycine levels in plasma is sufficient to increase plasma and tissue levels of deoxysphingolipids and causes functional retinal and peripheral sensory deficits.

Studies of D-serine in the retina have been limited to its effects on RGC currents and not on retinal field potentials as a whole. Given that functional NMDARs are located earlier in the vision pathway, D-serine acting on the NMDAR may affect electric potentials in the outer retina.

The researchers concluded that circulating serine levels influence retinal function, and dietary supplementation may be beneficial for patients with macular telangiectasia.

Both SerpinA1 and SerpinA3 have been implicated in conditions such as keratitis, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, dry eye disease, keratoconus, uveitis, and pterygium.