Exploring the potential role of the oxidant-activated transcription factor aryl hydrocarbon receptor in the pathogenesis of AMD

Abstract

Cigarette smoking is the most consistently shown risk factor associated with progression of all forms of age-related macular degeneration. The signaling pathways activated by cigarette smoke oxidants have not been fully elucidated. Herein, we review the effect of oxidant injury in retinal pigment epithelial cells at the subcellular level, introduce an oxidant-activated transcription factor called aryl hydrocarbon receptor, and discuss mechanisms by which this receptor may regulate the oxidative stress response in RPE cells and disease. © 2012 Springer Science+Business Media, LLC.