miR-146a suppresses STAT3/VEGF pathways and reduces apoptosis through IL-6 signaling in primary human retinal microvascular endothelial cells in high glucose conditions

Overall, we report that miR-146a suppressed IL-6 signaling, leading to reduced levels of STAT3 and VEGF in REC in high glucose conditions, leading to decreased apoptosis. The outcome suggests that miR-146a is a potential molecular target for inhibiting inflammation and apoptosis in the diabetic retina through the suppression of the IL-6-mediated STAT3/VEGF pathway.