Figure 2.
AT1-R activation by angiotensin II produced by the retina stimulates several pathways involved in the pathogenesis of DR such as inflammation, oxidative stress, leukostasis and angiogenesis. AT1-R:Angiotensin II type 1 receptor; AT2-R: Angiotensin II type 2 receptor; AGEs: Advanced glycated end products; BM: Basal membrane; BRB: Blood retinal barrier; ECM: Extracellular matrix; VEGF: Vascular endothelial growth factor.