Imbalance of the Nerve Growth Factor and Its Precursor as a Potential Biomarker for Diabetic Retinopathy

Figure 2

ProNGF increases are consistent in vitreous and serum. Representative blots and statistical analysis of proNGF protein expression are shown. ProNGF band intensities in vitreous and serum of diabetic (DB) and nondiabetic control (Con.) participants were normalized to Ponceau S and respective control group. (a) ProNGF expression is significantly elevated in vitreous of diabetic, 40.8-fold , relative to nondiabetic control group ( = 4–11, ). (b) In serum, proNGF expression is significantly increased, 3.6-fold , compared to nondiabetic controls ( = 6–11, ). Typical image of Ponceau staining for (c) vitreous blots and (d) serum blots showing the equal loading of control and diabetic samples as well as the area selected for intensity measurements.

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