CHAPTER 7: PEDF Peptides in Retinal Degenerations

Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF) is a multifunctional member of the serine proteinase inhibitor (serpin) superfamily. This widely studied protein is considered an ocular guardian because it protects the retina from degeneration induced by cell death, pathological neovascularization, tumorigenesis and inflammation. Studies of the independent activities of PEDF are challenged by the presence of other properties of the same molecule. This chapter summarizes approaches for such investigations using peptide synthesis, protein chemistry and recombinant DNA technologies based on the three-dimensional structure of PEDF to separate and alter them individually. The major focus is to discuss relevant applications of PEDF mimetics for protection against retinal degenerations.