RNA-seq of primary human fetal RPE cells (hfRPE) treated with IL1a, with and without prior high-dose zinc supplementation, compared to untreated controls

A RPE cell model mimicking a mature RPE was used to investigate the potential anti-inflammatory effects of high-dose zinc supplementation in the context of AMD research. RPE cultures were exposed to inflammatory conditions induced by interleukin 1a (IL-1a) after a 14-day treatment with high doses of zinc. RNA sequencing was employed to examine the relationship between zinc homeostasis and transcriptional changes driven by supplementation and inflammation. By analyzing the effects of different zinc concentrations prior to IL-1a exposure, we explored the role of the Zn-metallothioneins complex in regulating inflammatory responses and cellular function. This study aims to provide valuable insights into potential therapeutic strategies for AMD that target zinc homeostasis.