SP1-activated CFL2 promotes high glucose-induced retinal pigment epithelial cell injury and involves the AMPK/mTOR pathway.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Cofilin-2 (CFL2) belongs to the cofilin family of actin-binding proteins and plays an important role in the actin homeostasis of muscle cells. CFL2 has been confirmed to regulate diabetic retinopathy (DR) progression. However, the current research is limited and more evidence is needed to reveal its role and mechanism in the DR process.

Methods

Retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells (ARPE-19) were cultured in high-glucose (HG; 30 mM) conditions to mimic DR cell models. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were examined by CCK8 assay, EdU assay, flow cytometry, and caspase 3 activity detection. Cell oxidative stress, ferroptosis, and inflammation were evaluated by detecting ROS, MDA, SOD, GSH, Fe²⁺, TNF-α, and IL-1β levels. The mRNA and protein levels of CFL

SUBMITTER: Xiao J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12578670 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature