Abrogation of MMP-9 Gene Protects Against the Development of Retinopathy in Diabetic Mice by Preventing Mitochondrial Damage

Regulation of activated MMP-9 prevents retinal capillary cells from undergoing apoptosis by protecting mitochondrial ultrastructure and function and preventing mtDNA damage. Thus, MMP-9 inhibitors could have potential therapeutic value in preventing the development of diabetic retinopathy by preventing the continuation of the vicious cycle of mitochondrial damage.