Discovery of Protein that Causes Age-Related Blindness
A protein that could potentially prevent age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has been identified by researchers, according to a recent study published in the Developmental Cell. AMD is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults, impacting nearly 20 million Americans. As the population continues to age, this number is anticipated to significantly increase. Currently, there are no treatments available that can halt the progression of AMD.
Research Methodology
The study's lead author, Ruchira Singh, an associate professor of ophthalmology at the University of Rochester in New York, believes that they have identified something that can target early-stage disease. The study utilized human stem cells as opposed to animal models, which may provide a more accurate representation of what is happening in AMD.
Protein Driving AMD Identified
The researchers extracted human stem cells from both healthy individuals and AMD patients, programming them into cells that line the retina. They found that AMD patients' retinal cells overproduced a type of protein known as tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 3 (TIMP3), resulting in a buildup of fats and proteins called drusen, which are a marker of early-stage AMD.
Understanding AMD
In AMD, the macula, which is responsible for sharp vision, becomes damaged. Early symptoms of AMD include blurred vision or seeing a black spot in the central field of vision, making everyday activities like reading, driving, and even recognizing faces increasingly difficult. Dry AMD, accounting for 90% of diagnosed cases, is characterized by the gradual buildup of drusen and slow vision loss. Wet AMD, which is less common and more severe, is linked to the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the retina.
Preventing AMD
Singh's team discovered that by blocking TIMP3, they could increase levels of another enzyme called matrix metallopeptidase 2 (MMP2), which helps regulate inflammation and eye health. When MMP2 levels are low, inflammation increases, leading to more drusen buildup and vision loss. By boosting MMP2 levels, the researchers were able to reduce drusen accumulation.
Future Steps
The team has filed provisional patents for enzyme inhibitors that could potentially treat the disease. The next steps involve preclinical studies and determining the best method of delivery, such as oral medication or eye drops. Only after these stages can the therapy be tested and, if successful, made available to patients.
Risk Factors for AMD
The exact cause of AMD is not fully understood, but genetic and environmental factors are known to contribute. Having a family history of AMD may increase the risk. Certain genes, such as ABCA4, have been linked to the condition. However, research is ongoing to determine their role in treatment.
Preventative Measures
AMD progresses at different rates in different people. Daily vitamins and nutritional supplements may help slow the progression of intermediate dry AMD. Certain nutrients benefit eye health, including vitamins C and E, zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids. These are linked to a lower risk of developing AMD later in life. Physical activity is also associated with lower odds of early and late AMD.
Bottom Line
This research brings hope for a potential treatment for AMD, a disease that currently has no cure and affects millions of older adults. The identification of the protein driving AMD and the discovery of a potential therapy could be a game-changer in the field of ophthalmology. What are your thoughts on this development? Share this article with your friends and sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is available every day at 6pm.
