Effect of High Glucose on the Production of Reactive Oxygen Species in R28 Cells

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate the effect of high glucose (HG) on the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in retinal precursor R28 cells. Methods: R28 cells were incubated with low glucose (5 mM) or HG (25 mM) for two days. Additionally, the cells were co-exposed to 50 M N-acetyl cysteine or 100 M L-arginine. Production of nitric oxide (NO), ROS, and superoxide were assessed by Griess assay, DCFH-DA assay, and modified cytochrome c assay, respectively. Results: HG increased the production of NO, ROS, and superoxide, which were abolished by antioxidants NAC and L-arginine (a substrate for NO production). Conclusions: HG increased ROS production in R28 cells. Thus, HG may cause cellular dysfunction and damage by inducing oxidative stress in retinal ganglion cells.