Effects of NGR1 on the Protective Efficacy and Functional Vision Profile of Retinal Photodamage

TL;DR

This study shows that NGR1, a compound from Panax notoginseng, helps protect retinal cells and improve vision after light-induced damage in mice.

Contribution

The study reveals NGR1's novel protective effects on cone photoreceptors and Müller cells in retinal photodamage.

Findings

NGR1 improved ERG amplitude, visual acuity, and contrast sensitivity in mice with retinal damage.

NGR1 preserved cone density and reduced abnormal opsin trafficking and Müller cell gliosis.

NGR1 mitigated retinal inflammation and supported macular cell health.

Abstract

Prolonged exposure to high-intensity light can harm macula vision, particularly affecting the function of Müller cells and cone photoreceptors. Panax notoginseng saponins (PNS) have valuable pharmacological effects on cerebrovascular, neurological, and microcirculatory health. Notoginsenoside R1 (NGR1), derived from PNS, shows potential for treating vascular or ischemia-reperfusion-related retinal issues; however, its impact on cone cells and the functional vision profile is not well understood. This study aimed to explore the effect and efficacy of NGR1 on retinal photodamage in vivo in mice. In a mouse model, high-intensity light causes significant photoreceptor damage, increases the production of pro-inflammatory factors, promotes Müller cell gliosis, and remarkably reduces the content of M- and S-opsin in cones, resulting in the abnormal and dysfunctional mislocalization of cone-opsin protein trafficking. Our data demonstrated that NGR1 orally administered improved ERG amplitude, visual acuity, and visual contrast sensitivity function compared to the vehicle group. It also preserved S- and M-cone density, mitigated abnormal trafficking of cone opsin protein, inhibited Müller cell gliosis, and reduced retinal inflammation. Therefore, NGR1 may serve as a valuable traditional complementary therapeutic or nutraceutical component for enhancing functional vision and supporting the health of Müller and cone cells in the macula.

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