Combination of Resveratrol with omega‐3 fatty acids synergize to counteract VEGF‐R pathway in sick retinal pigment epithelium cells mimicking AMD

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of this work is to assess whether RSV (Resveratrol) can act synergistically with omega‐3 fatty acids to modulate VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) signaling pathway in order to identify a new and more effective therapy for the treatment of AMD (Age‐Related Macular Degeneration).MethodsIn this study, undifferentiated and differentiated human retinal pigment epithelial cells (ARPE‐19) were used. The cells were treated with an omega‐3/RSV preparation (Resvega®), or a RSV‐free formulation or RSV alone for 24 h. The expression of key proteins in VEGF signaling pathway was evaluated by Western Blotting.ResultsWe observed that the combination omega‐3/RSV preparation (Resvega®) induces a stronger inhibition of the VEGF‐R pathway activation than the RSV‐free formulation or RSV alone in sick retinal cells. Surprisingly, Resvega® maintains and increases the functional VEGF‐R pathway in normal retinal cells.ConclusionsThis work brings a new insight into the mechanism by which omega‐3/RSV could counteract AMD and could protect the other eye when AMD is already present.Financial Support: This work is supported by Théa laboratory.