2025/10/01 by Jingzhen Li, Beibei Wang, Pinjie Liu +6 · 1 voice
Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology · Medicine · Neuroscience · #Circadian rhythm and melatonin #Dietary Effects on Health #Genetics, Aging, and Longevity in Model Organisms
paper · pdf · doi:10.1038/s42003-025-08815-0
openalex publication_date 2025/10/01 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/23
Abstract Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss, with limited treatments available. Recent studies suggest intermittent fasting (IF) may offer neuroprotective benefits for aging and age-related disorders, but its efficacy in AMD has not yet been established. Here, using a sodium iodate (NaIO 3 )-induced AMD model in male mice, we find that pretreatment with an IF diet regimen mitigates NaIO 3 -induced cellular damage and loss of both retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and photoreceptors. Visual function tests indicate that IF preserves vision in NaIO 3 -treated mice. Transcriptome analyses show IF counteracts NaIO 3 -induced transcriptional dysregulation, affecting genes related to reactive oxygen species (ROS), inflammation, and photoreceptor structure. Further experimental results confirm that IF effectively reduces ROS levels and inhibits the activation of microglia and Muller cells in the retina. Collectively, these findings indicate that IF reduces ROS production and inflammation in NaIO 3 -induced retinal damage, providing a potential therapeutic strategy for oxidative stress-induced retinal degenerative diseases, including AMD.