Study Finds Potential Cause of Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Indeed, the authors tested that theory directly, by injecting Slit2 protein into the eyes of mouse models of AMD and diabetic retinopathy. In both cases, Slit2 reduced the angiogenesis that is a hallmark of disease.

But Williams noted that this same approach would not likely be viable therapeutically. Instead, a Slit2 molecular agonist (that is, a molecular mimic) would need to be developed and tested in humans -- a process that could take a decade or more before arriving in the clinic, he said.

AMD is the leading cause of blindness in Americans over the age of 55, according to the American Macular Degeneration Association, affecting more than 10 million individuals.

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For more on diseases of the eye, visit the U.S. National Eye Institute.

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