Project Summary
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects a part of the retina called the macula responsible for clear vision. A damaged macula will lead to central vision loss, significantly affecting quality of life affected by this disease. There is no treatment for dry AMD. The research team seeks to understand how little vesicles, called exosomes, that retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and retinal cells secrete and contain many cellular bioproducts contribute to drusen formation and the progression of AMD. They will also identify bioactive molecules released in exosomes that could serve as potential biomarkers for AMD.
The goal is to bridge basic research on AMD with clinical application by transforming our understanding of AMD pathophysiology and drusen formation. This involves preclinical validation, investigating interventions targeting autophagy and exosomes, biomarker development, diagnostic tool integration, therapeutic development, and patient stratification for personalized treatments. Through these strategies, we aim to improve AMD diagnosis, treatment, and patient outcomes.
