Scientists from the University of Virginia have identified a previously unknown factor that contributes to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other common vision disorders, including vision loss – the effect of the metabolism-related FTO protein. Protein contributes to the pathological proliferation of blood vessels, but its blockade prevents this. The results of the research have been published magazine Signal Transmission and Targeted Therapy.
The macula is a layer of specialized cells located above the retinal pigment epithelial cells layer, and beneath it is a thin Bruch membrane separating the upper layers from the blood vessel network. As we age, new pathological vessels may enlarge in the eye. They grow from Bruch’s membrane, which damages the sensitive nerves that provide healthy vision.
It is known that abnormal vascular growth in the eye is caused by an excess of VEGF protein, which plays an important role in the formation of blood vessels. There are currently available treatments for the disease, but these only provide temporary results once treatment is started.
In the new study, the researchers identified the FTO protein that affects metabolism. It also plays an important role in the sprouting of vessels in the eye and determines the level of VEGF. Blocking this FTO protein in laboratory mice significantly reduced VEGF levels without undesirable side effects.
The results of the study will help future scientists develop new methods to prevent vision loss and other visual impairments from AMD.
Source: Gazeta
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