Stem cells ameliorate neurotrauma-induced visual disturbances and retinal degeneration via broad normalization of β-catenin-related signaling

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with visual dysfunction and retinal degeneration, but the underlying mechanisms and therapeutic options remain limited. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown neuroprotective effects in various central nervous system injuries, including optic neuropathies. Objective: models. Methods: , R28 retinal precursor cells underwent stretch injury (SI) and were then cocultured with MSCs. Cell viability, apoptosis, mitochondrial membrane potential, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and β-catenin signaling were evaluated. Results: injuries, restoring visual function, preserving retinal structure, and normalizing β-catenin-related pathways. Conclusion: MSC therapy mitigates TBI-induced visual dysfunction and retinal degeneration, in association with β-catenin-related neuroprotective signaling, and may represent a promising strategy for treating TBI-related visual and retinal injury.