HIF-1α siRNA reduces retinal neovascularization in a mouse model of retinopathy of prematurity

Abstract:

OBJECTIVE: To study the inhibition effect of HIF-1α specific siRNA expression vector pSUPERH1-siHIF-1α on retinal neovascularization in a mouse model of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). METHODS: The mouse model of ROP was prepared by the method Smith described. Forty-eight ROP mice were randomly divided into two groups: an experimental group that was intravitreously injected with pSUPERH1-siHIF-1α and a control group that was injected with pSUPER retro vector. The levels of HIF-1α and vascular endothelia growth factor (VEGF) in the retina were examined by Western blot. The retinal neovascularization was evaluated by angiography using FITC Dextran and quantitated histologically. RESULTS: The levels of HIF-1α and VEGF in the retina in the experimental group were reduced 90% and 65% respectively compared with those in the control group. Meanwhile, the number of retinal neovascular endothelial nucleus outbreaking the inner limit membrane in the experimental group was significantly reduced compared with that in the control group. CONCLUSIONS: The development of retinal neovascularization of ROP can be markedly inhibited by RNA interference targeting HIF-1α.