Autophagy Modulates the Migration of Retinal Pericytes Induced by Advanced Glycation End Products

Figure 6

A schematic showing the AGEs-induced pericytes migration. AGEs induce autophagy and further induce retinal pericytes migration. In this process, the expressions of p-FAK/FAK and MMP-2 increased and the expression of vinculin decreased, those are important for FAs formation and the degradation of extracellular matrix components. Pericytes migration will ultimately disrupt the integrity of capillaries, increase vascular permeability, and further promote the progression of DR.