RPB-supported researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have published a new study suggesting that aging immune cells increase the risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a major cause of blindness in the United States.
The researchers found that as immune cells called macrophages age, they are more likely to contribute to the inflammation and abnormal blood vessel growth that damage vision in AMD. According to one of the lead researchers on the study, which was published in the scientific journal JCI Insight, the findings could impact future treatment options.
Rajendra S. Apte, MD, PhD, senior investigator on the study.
“Drug treatments for macular degeneration aren’t effective for some patients, who either have a minimal response or no response at all, and many patients continue to experience vision loss over the long term, even if they have a good initial response to treatment,” said senior investigator Rajendra S. Apte, MD, PhD, the Paul A. Cibis Distinguished Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. “But by understanding what happens with the immune cells in the eye, it may be possible to develop therapies to help patients who can’t be helped with existing drugs.”
April 18, 2018
RPB grantees provide expert advice on glaucoma in the first event of the "Lunch & Learn" series.
This new media campaign shines a spotlight on the powerful benefits of vision research.
David Williams, PhD, is recognized for ground-breaking contributions to the field of vision research.
Dr. Chiang is a respected scientist, clinician and leader in vision research.
RPB is increasing both the amount of funding and the number of awards funded through its flagship grant in order to better support early-career vision scientists.
The organizations announce new grants to increase funding for innovative research from early-career vision scientists.
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