Genetics of age-related macular degeneration.

Gene discoveries will lead to more effective them pies for AMD by identifying specific underlying disease mechanisms that might be corrected by drugs or gene therapy. For example, investigations are currently being carried out using pigment epithelium-derived factor (FEDF). The gene for this potent inhibitor of angiogenesis has been incorporated into an adenoviral vector and delivered into the eye by intravitreal injection to inhibit growth of new blood vessels in eyes with neovascular AMD. In the future, as the genetics of this complex disease are unraveled, more effective treatments and preventative measures that target specific molecular defects underlying the development of AMD can be expected.