Aircraft noise-induced retinal endothelial dysfunction and pre-existing ocular diseases

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Adrian Gericke
• Subject Area: Public Health, Healthcare Research, Social and Occupational Medicine ; Pharmacology
• Term: since 2024
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 546230506

The aim of this research project is to investigate the influence of aircraft noise on the retina. It is known that aircraft noise induces endothelial dysfunction and oxidative stress in the retina; however, it is not known whether there are gender-specific differences in terms of effects and mechanisms. Furthermore, it is not known whether the severity of pre-existing retinal pathological conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma is exacerbated by aircraft noise. For this reason, both functional vascular studies on retinal arterioles using videomicroscopy and expression studies on mice exposed to aircraft noise will be examined, with a focus on quantifying oxidative stress and redox enzymes. Additionally, morphological examinations of the retina will be conducted to determine whether diabetic retinopathy or glaucoma is intensified by chronic aircraft noise. This project could yield new therapeutic approaches and insights into aircraft noise prevention.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants