The Scientist : Gene discovery identifies cause of common blindness diseases [5/1/2001]

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by John K Borchardt

NEWS ANALYSIS

Gene discovery identifies cause of common blindness diseases

Identification of the gene responsible for diseases causing blindness in millions also has identified a mode of drug action that could prevent these diseases.

News from The Scientist 2001, 2(1):20010105-05

Published

5 January 2001

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in individuals over 55 years of age in the developed world. AMD affects about 11 million Americans, 5 million of whom have become legally blind because of it. Stargardt's macular degeneration (STGD3) is an early-onset form of AMD that affects about 30,000 children and young adults in the United States. Researchers reported in this week's Nature Genetics that they have identified a gene linked to AMD and predicted the discovery will help the search for drug treatment. Currently there is no known cure (Nat Genet 2001 27(1): 89-93).


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