From risk factors to molecular targets: clinical associations and molecular docking insights into phthalate-associated diabetic retinopathy - Summary - MDSpire

From risk factors to molecular targets: clinical associations and molecular docking insights into phthalate-associated diabetic retinopathy

  • By

  • Zhiwei Xu

  • Shi Bai

  • Caidi He

  • Xiaobei Lv

  • Qin Li

  • Qile Mao

  • Haijian Wu

  • Peter Wang

  • May 13, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To identify novel risk factors for diabetic retinopathy (DR) and explore the contribution of phthalate exposure to DR pathogenesis.

Key Findings:
  • Longer weekday outdoor time associated with higher odds of DR (OR = 3.18, 95% CI: 1.36–7.95).
  • Higher serum epi-25-hydroxyvitamin D3 levels linked to lower odds of DR (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.64–0.97).
  • Less electronic device use correlated with lower odds of DR (OR = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.43–0.98).
  • Cataract strongly associated with DR (OR = 11.0, 95% CI: 1.77–99.8).
  • Inverse associations found between urinary phthalates (MiBP) and DR.
Interpretation:

The study identifies novel clinical and environmental correlates of DR, suggesting a significant link between phthalate exposure and DR-related pathways.

Limitations:
  • Cross-sectional design limits causal inference.
  • Self-reported data may introduce bias.
  • Limited generalizability due to specific cohort characteristics and potential impact on results.
Conclusion:

The findings highlight the relevance of environmental exposures in DR risk and provide a basis for further mechanistic and preventive research.

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