Dual Targeting Mitochondria and GPCR in Retinal Protection

PROJECT SUMMARY Treatment for retinal degeneration that deteriorates photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells remains limited to date. A significant challenge for therapeutic design in retinal protection is the complexity of degenerative mechanism. Single target intervention would not be effective to slow down or modify the degenerative course due to compensatory mechanisms of disease-related pathways. Multi-target intervention is increasingly important for effective treatment of complex disease including neurodegeneration. However, compounds with bioactivity that can intervene more than one disease-related pathways in retinal degeneration have not been explored. In this proposal, we will conduct in vivo therapeutic testing of a multi-target drug (CM- 20) in retinal protection via dual targeting both mitochondria and a G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) to improve mitochondrial function and biogenesis and to mitigate retinal oxidative damage. Two mouse models of retinal degeneration will be used. One is an environmental stressor-induced retinal degeneration, and the other one is a genetic model of inherited retinal disease. We will evaluate efficacy of CM-20 in protecting outer retina and mitochondria and in reducing retinal oxidative stress. Positive outcomes would justify efficacy clinical trial in human retinal degeneration and provide mechanistic knowledge in mechanism of action.