AMD Study
AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION (AMD)
Etiologic Studies of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Family Studies of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Principal Investigator: Johanna M. Seddon, MD, ScM
Professor of Ophthalmology at Tufts University School of Medicine
Founding Director of the Ophthalmic Epidemiology
and Genetics Service of Tufts Medical Center
Definition: AMD is a retinal degenerative disease that causes a progressive loss of central vision. AMD is the most common cause of vision loss in individuals age 60 years and older.
Target Population: Individuals with advanced stages of macular degeneration (wet or dry) over age 55 and their spouses, siblings and adult children (with or without AMD).
Duration: On-going since 1989.
Purpose and Protocol: The purpose of this research study is to determine the causes of macular degeneration so we can prevent it and find better treatments. We will identify genes and environmental determinants of AMD. Eligible study participants will have an eye exam and blood draw. Participants will also complete questionnaires on diet and risk factors.
Discoveries by our research team and collaborators
Lifestyle Factors: Smoking increases risk of AMD, lutein and zeaxanthin (carotenoids) and dark green leafy vegetables in the diet reduce risk of AMD, omega-3 fatty acids, fish and nuts reduce risk, trans fats increase risk, overall and abdominal obesity increase risk, and exercise reduces risk of macular degeneration.
Genetic Factors: Ten novel genetic variants associated with AMD including two new variants in the CFH gene; Complement Component 3 (C3), Complement Factor I (CFI), Hepatic Lipase C (LIPC), a gene in the high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) pathway associated with reduced risk of AMD; other genes in the HDL pathway associated with AMD including ABCA1 and CETP; TIMP3, a gene related to a juvenile onset type of macular degeneration which may also raise susceptibility to AMD: VEGF-A in the angiogenesis pathway, and genes in the extracellular matrix pathway called COL10A1 and COL8A1.
Biomarkers: C-reactive protein in the blood, a marker of systemic inflammation, is increased in patients with AMD;other complement proteins in plasma (in the inflammatory pathway) are associated with AMD; higher total cholesterol and higher LDL levels increase risk of AMD, and higher HDL reduces risk.
YOU DO NOT NEED TO LIVE IN THE BOSTON AREA TO PARTICIPATE.
Contact:
Project Manager
Ophthalmic Epidemiology and Genetics Service
New England Eye Center
Tufts Medical Center
800 Washington Street #450
Boston, MA 02111
617-636-9000 or toll free: 800-219-9157
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AMD Study
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