Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Pathogenesis and Future Therapeutics

Abstract

The aging process significantly increases the likelihood of developing ocular diseases, most notably Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), which is a leading cause of vision loss both in the US and globally. The development of this disease is directly driven by aging changes occurring in the retina. These include the deposition of specific deposits called drusen, structural remodeling of Bruch's membrane and the extracellular matrix, as well as inflammation and vascular dysfunction. Additionally, this process is fueled by mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress caused by an excess of free radicals (ROS), which ultimately leads to the degradation of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells. Because current methods for preventing and treating AMD are highly insufficient, researchers are continuously searching for innovative therapeutic strategies and new drug targets.