Epigenetic modifications and diabetic retinopathy: diabetes increases oxidative stress in the retina, reactive oxygen species (ROS) modify enzymes responsible for DNA methylation (Dnmts) and histone modifications (SAT, LSD1, HAT and HDAC, etc.), and also miRNAs. Due to epigenetic modifications of various genes and transcription factors, the expression of the targeted genes is altered resulting in mitochondrial dysfunction, and ultimately, in the development of diabetic retinopathy.
