Promising Gene Therapy Research Brings Hope to those with Age-Related Vision Conditions
Gene therapy continues to show promise in helping restore vision in age-related eye conditions, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma.
At Austin Retina Associates, our team of board-certified retinal specialists is committed to advancing retinal care through our research department and extensive clinical trial opportunities for patients.
Gene therapy could potentially benefit age-related issues like macular degeneration by teaching the body/cells in the eye to regenerate and replace the old damaged cells but also to even produce medication the eye needs.
A new study recently published in Nature Communications reveals promise in an innovative regenerative technology used on mice in South Korea.
The research team closely examined how gene therapy could encourage the eyes to enter a ‘repair mode’ and trigger cell regeneration in the retina which would restore vision loss. Although this study was only conducted on mice, the results were promising.
Here are some key details:
● A new compound antibody drug (Prox1) was successfully used to block a specific protein in the eyes that prevents retinal nerves from regenerating
● Intentionally blocking this protein then potentially paves the way for retina cells to be coaxed into regenerating themselves as healthier ones
● Effects of this antibody drug on helping retina cells to regenerate were observed to have a long-term effect of up to six months
Clinical trials using Prox1 on humans are projected to begin in 2028.
With the world’s population growing increasingly older and living longer, this could offer help to the thousands who suffer from age-related vision loss but still want to experience an active and engaging life.
As with any serious medical condition, like vision loss, our retina specialists emphasize that early detection and timely treatment are crucial to preventing further damage and, in some cases, even reversing it.
If you have been diagnosed with macular degeneration feel free to contact us for a consultation. We are committed to providing the most cutting-edge technologies and treatments available to our patients to combat age-related vision loss.
Consult with a Retina Specialist Today
Austin Retina Associates treats a wide range of retinal conditions. Our experienced team of retina specialists in Austin are dedicated to improving your vision and quality of life.
Contact us at 800-252-8259, or request an appointment online at one of our retina treatment centerslocated in Austin and throughout Central Texas.
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