Age-Related Macular Degeneration Genes Found (NAPSA)—Scientists now have a few more genetic clues about a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness in older Americans—age-related macular degeneration (AMD). That’s because a large-scale collaborative study, supported by the National Eye Institute (NED, part of the National Institutes of Health, has identified three new genes associated with this eye dis- ease—twoplaying a role in the cholesterol pathway in the eye. AMD gradually destroys sharp, central vision. Central vision is needed for seeing objects clearly and for common daily tasks such as reading and driving. The results of the study were published in the Proceedings of the National Academyof Sciences. Said Paul A. Sieving, M.D., Ph.D., NEI director, “This study increases our understanding of DNAvariations that predict individual risks of AMD and provides clues for developing effective therapies.” The study shed light on a new biological pathway for AMD disease development, by uncovering genes in the high-density lipoprotein older Americans—age-related macular degeneration—may be closerto a cure. researchers have uncovered a major biochemical pathway that may be a target for future AMD treatments. Meanwhile, your lifestyle can play a role in reducing yourrisk of developing AMD. Here are a few hints from the NET: e Eat green leafy vegetables andfatty fish such as salmon. Don’t smoke. Maintain normal blood pressure. essential fats, such as cholesterol, Watch your weight. e Exercise. Learn More The National Eye Institute leads the federal government’s are affected by accumulated prod- eye diseases. NEI supports basic andclinical science programs that (HDL) pathway associated with AMDrisk. HDLs are among a fam- ily of lipoproteins that transport through the bloodstream. It’s believed that early stages of AMD ucts of cholesterol and other fats in a layer of cells in the back of the eye. The relationship between HDL cholesterol levels in the blood and AMD is still unclear, but the research on the visual system and result in the developmentof sight- saving treatments. For more information, visit www.nei.nih.gov. For more information about AMD, visit www.nei.nih.gov/health or call (801) 496-5248.
