Fluid accumulation into the subretinal space and the development of macular edema is a
common condition in age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and following
ocular surgery, or injury. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and other cytokines
have been implicated in the disruption of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) barrier function
and a reduction in the regulated removal of subretinal fluid; however, the cellular and
molecular events linking these agents to the disruption of barrier function have not been …