Ferulic acid attenuates microglia-mediated neuroinflammation in retinal degeneration

Abstract Background Retinal degeneration is often accompanied by microglia-mediated neuroinflammation. Ferulic acid (FA), an active ingredient of traditional Chinese medicines (TCMs), has been reported to have anti-inflammatory effects. This study explores the impact FA on neuroinflammation and associated retinal in rd10 mice. Methods Rd10 mice received different concentrations every day from postnatal (P)4 P24. On P25, visual function was evaluated electroretinogram, retinae were collected for further investigation. Microglial activation expression relevant cytokines retina qPCR, western blotting immunofluorescence staining. structure assessed haematoxylin eosin (HE) Results Supplementation with 50 mg/kg provided optimal protection against degeneration, treated exhibiting more photoreceptor nuclei as well greater wave amplitude amplification electroretinogram than untreated suppressed microglial both vivo vitro, inhibited pro-inflammatory factors Tnf?, IL1?, Ccl2 Furthermore, STAT1 subsequently IRF8 expression, potentially highlighting a role these pathways FA-mediated immunomodulatory activity. Conclusions Attenuation may be beneficial retarding degeneration.