Beta-alanine promotes angiogenesis in laser-induced choroidal neovascularization mice models.

AIM: To investigate the effect of β-alanine (BA) on laser-induced choroidal neovascularization (CNV) mice models.

METHODS

Laser-induced CNV mice models were established, and BA was administrated for one week and two weeks in advance, separately. Furthermore, retinal pigment epithelium (RPE)-choroid flat mounts were separated, and immunohistochemical staining was performed. The laser-induced CNV lesion areas were measured and compared. In addition, liver and kidney morphologies were observed to identify potential hepatorenal toxicity.

RESULTS

Enlarged CNV lesion areas were observed in the BA treated group. No significant differences were observed in the liver and kidney sections between groups.

CONCLUSION

BA treatment increase CNV lesion areas, suggesting the detrimental effects of BA as a nutritional supplement in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) population.