Clinical Studies
AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION (AMD)
Etiologic Studies of Age Related Macular Degeneration
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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 CenterDefinition: 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). Also recruiting individuals without signs of AMD.
Duration: On-going since 1989.
Purpose: 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.
Recent discoveries by our research team and collaborators: Four novel genetic variants associated with AMD including Hepatic Lipase C, a gene associated with reduced risk of AMD; TIMP3, a gene related to AMD; 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.
Robyn Reynolds
Project Manager
Ophthalmic Epidemiology and Genetics Service
New England Eye Center
Tufts Medical Center
800 Washington Street #450
Boston, MA 02111
617-636-9000
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Toll Free: 800-219-9157