Breakthroughs in diabetic retinopathy diagnosis and treatment using preclinical research models: current progress and future directions.

Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a severe microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus, poses a significant global health threat with its rising prevalence amidst the diabetes pandemic. As the leading cause of vision impairment and blindness among working-age diabetic adults, DR highlights the urgent need for innovative diagnostic methods and effective therapeutic strategies. Early detection and prompt intervention are crucial for mitigating DR's devastating consequences. This narrative review explores recent advancements in basic science and translational research on DR diagnosis and treatment, leveraging cellular and animal models. It elucidates the complex pathophysiological mechanisms underlying DR, particularly hyperglycaemia-triggered oxidative stress, inflammation and aberrant angiogenesis. Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rodents and genetically engineered mice are highlighted as valuable models for understanding human DR pathogenesis and gaining mechanistic insights. The review identifies key findings from the literature, including translational gaps, emerging trends and untapped opportunities. It emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in advancing DR research and overcoming translational challenges. Sustained investment in preclinical research is critical for deepening our understanding of DR and refining management strategies, ultimately aiming to alleviate the global burden of vision loss attributed to this complication.