Several environmental (external) and genetic (internal) factors are involved in the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Proper screening and early detection of such factors shall improve the prevention and treatment of this blinding disease. Lately, oxidative stress and factors influencing it have been recognised as important determinants of DR appearance and fullmination. Recently, beside genetical factors, epigenetic mechanisms (i.e., global acetylation of retinal histone H3) have been demonstrated to play an important role in the development and progression of DR to more severe form, proliferative diabetic retinopathy. Other internal factors affecting DR determined by exome sequencing may prove very helpful in the evaluation of diabetic retinopathy, while screening for external factors may supplement prevention or early diagnosis of the disease. Furthermore, new treatment modalities in microvascular disorders such as DR are emerging that may affect oxidative stress. We invite investigators to contribute reviews and original papers.

Potential topics include but are not limited to the following:

• Oxidative stress and pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy TBD
• Genetics of oxidative stress and diabetic retinopathy TBD
• Epigenetic mechanisms of oxidative stress genes and diabetic retinopathy TBD
• Exome sequencing and diabetic retinopathy TBD
• Epidemiology and screening for diabetic retinopathy TBD
• Environmental factors (diet, drugs) affecting the development of diabetic retinopathy via suppression of oxidative stress TBD
• New therapies (i.e., siRNA) and diabetic retinopathy TBD