Secretory autophagy and epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition in cadaveric AMD samples: Novel pathways in disease progression

Abstract Purpose To examine the presence of secretory autophagy and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) in the macular retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) of human cadaver eyes with different forms of age‐related macular degeneration (AMD). Methods Human cadaver macula samples representing dry and wet AMD, as well as age‐matched controls, were analyzed using immunohistochemistry. Markers of secretory autophagy, EMT, and inflammation were evaluated in RPE cells. Results Increased expression of proteins associated with secretory autophagy and EMT was detected in the RPE of AMD samples compared to controls. These changes were observed in both dry and wet AMD forms. Conclusion Secretory autophagy and EMT are elevated in the macular RPE of AMD‐affected eyes. These observations offer novel insight into AMD progression and potential therapeutic approaches.