Complement, age-related macular degeneration and a vision of the future.
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is one of the most well-characterized late-onset, complex trait diseases. Remarkable advances in our understanding of the genetic and biological foundations of this disease were derived from a recent convergence of scientific and clinical data. Importantly, the more recent identification of AMD-associated variations in a number of complement pathway genes has provided strong support for earlier, paradigm-shifting studies that suggested that aberrant function of the complement system plays a key role in disease etiology. Collectively, this wealth of information has provided an impetus for the development of powerful tools to accurately diagnose disease risk and progression and complement-based therapeutics that will ultimately delay or prevent AMD. Indeed, we are poised to witness a new era of a personalized approach toward the assessment, management, and treatment of this debilitating, chronic disease.
Gehrs
Karen M
KM
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Iowa, Iowa City, USA.
Jackson
Jared R
JR
Brown
Eric N
EN
Allikmets
Rando
R
Hageman
Gregory S
GS
D003165:Complement System Proteins / Q000502:physiology*; D005821:Genetic Techniques / Q000639:trends; D006801:Humans; D008268:Macular Degeneration / Q000235:genetics / Q000503:physiopathology*
D003165:Complement System Proteins