UCSD Researchers ID Gene Linked To Macular Degeneration

SAN DIEGO -- Dr. Kang Zhang of the University of California, San Diego is part of a joint team of U.S. and Chinese researchers that have identified a gene linked to a disease that effects millions of senior citizens.

"Macular degeneration is a degeneration of the eye where in which the macula, which is the center of the retina, degenerates creating a blind spot in the center of your vision," Zhang.

Researchers studied macular degeneration genes in the lab and in mice. They discovered the link between the disease and a key molecule that alerts the immune system to the presence of viral infections.

"The results of this study are that if you have a particular form of this gene you are more predisposed to this form of macular degeneration," said Zhang.

Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in Americans 65 and older.

"Now we have a drug target where we can potentially design drugs in the future to reverse the dry form of macular degeneration and for the people who are predisposed to macular degeneration. Maybe we can do preventative measures; we can do to slow down progression," said Zhang.

The research also showed that people with the gene who undergo certain treatments could be at risk. That means some clinical trials that use a therapy called RNA could inadvertently lead to blindness.

"It has a cautionary note for the people who might be on RNA-based drugs, that it might cause some damage to the macula," said Zhang.

Researchers said the findings are a step forward to understanding the nature of the disease. It paves the way for scientists to develop eye disease treatment methods.

For information on current clinical trials for macular degeneration, or to make an appointment with Dr. Kang Zhang at the Shiley Eye Center at UCSD, call 858-534-6290 or visit: shileyeye.ucsd.edu/index.htm