Balázs Blazics

17β-Estradiol eye drops protect the retinal ganglion cell layer and preserve visual function in an in vivo model of glaucoma

Neuroprotection in glaucoma as a curative strategy complementary to current therapies to lower intraocular pressure (IOP) is highly desirable. This study was designed to investigate neuroprotection by 17β-estradiol (E2) to prevent retinal ganglion cell (RGC) death in a glaucoma model of surgically elevated IOP in rats. We found that daily treatment with E2-containing eye drops resulted in significant E2 concentration in the retina with concomitant profound neuroprotective therapeutic benefits, even in the presence of continually elevated IOP. The number of apoptotic cells in the RGC layer was significantly decreased in the E2-treated group, when compared to the vehicle-treated controls. Deterioration in visual acuity in these animals was also markedly prevented. Using mass spectrometry-based proteomics, beneficial changes in the expression of several proteins implicated in the maintenance of retinal health were also found in the retina of E2-treated animals. On the other hand, systemic side effects could not be avoided with the eye drops, as confirmed by the measured high circulating estrogen levels and through the assessment of the uterus representing a typical hormone-sensitive peripheral organ. Collectively, the demonstrated significant neuroprotective effect of topical E2 in the selected animal model of glaucoma provides a clear rationale for further studies aiming at targeting E2 into the eye while avoiding systemic E2 exposure to diminish undesirable off-target side effects.

Effect of Pintes white wine on metabolic parameters in patients with metabolic syndrome

UNLABELLED Moderate alcohol consumption has been associated with decreased cardiovascular mortality in the general population. Relatively few studies have been conducted to evaluate the effect of white wine on insulin sensitivity. AIMS The authors studied the impact of moderate Pintes white wine consumption on insulin sensitivity and other metabolic parameters. METHODS The prospective study involved 18 patients with metabolic syndrome. The patients consumed Pintes white wine for 4 weeks, and parameters were measured before and after consumption. RESULTS The HOMA-IR decreased significantly after white wine consumption (2.28±2.04 vs 1.08±0.6; p = 0.002). There were no changes in serum cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, triglyceride and fasting plasma glucose levels. CONCLUSION White wine consumption improved insulin sensitivity in patients with metabolic syndrome.