Trophic factors are endogenously secreted proteins that act in an autocrine and/or paracrine
fashion to affect vital cellular processes such as proliferation, differentiation, and
regeneration, thereby maintaining overall cell homeostasis. In the eye, the major
contributors of these molecules are the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) and Müller cells. The
primary paracrine targets of these secreted proteins include the photoreceptors and
choriocapillaris. Retinal degenerative diseases such as age-related macular degeneration …