The article reviews the role of inflammation in the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR), a major cause of visual impairment and blindness. It highlights the evidence that inflammatory processes, including the activation of leukocytes and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, contribute to the early and late stages of DR. The authors discuss the potential of anti-inflammatory therapies to inhibit the progression of different stages of DR, focusing on in vivo studies and in vitro research. Key inflammatory mediators such as iNOS, COX-2, eicosanoids, adhesion molecules, VEGF, and cytokines are reviewed, along with their roles in the pathogenesis of DR. The article also explores the therapeutic potential of targeting these inflammatory pathways, including the use of salicylates, RAGE inhibitors, and anti-VEGF therapies. Additionally, it examines the anti-inflammatory effects of clinically used therapies, such as angiotensin II receptor blockers and statins, and their potential to inhibit DR. The article concludes by discussing the role of hyperglycemia and lipid metabolism in inducing an inflammatory state in the retina.The article reviews the role of inflammation in the development of diabetic retinopathy (DR), a major cause of visual impairment and blindness. It highlights the evidence that inflammatory processes, including the activation of leukocytes and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, contribute to the early and late stages of DR. The authors discuss the potential of anti-inflammatory therapies to inhibit the progression of different stages of DR, focusing on in vivo studies and in vitro research. Key inflammatory mediators such as iNOS, COX-2, eicosanoids, adhesion molecules, VEGF, and cytokines are reviewed, along with their roles in the pathogenesis of DR. The article also explores the therapeutic potential of targeting these inflammatory pathways, including the use of salicylates, RAGE inhibitors, and anti-VEGF therapies. Additionally, it examines the anti-inflammatory effects of clinically used therapies, such as angiotensin II receptor blockers and statins, and their potential to inhibit DR. The article concludes by discussing the role of hyperglycemia and lipid metabolism in inducing an inflammatory state in the retina.