A recent study conducted by researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine found that a molecule may hold the key in reversing age-related macular degeneration.
The molecule, apolipoprotien M (ApoM) is responsible for breaking down cholesterol build-up in the eye and improving retinal health. People with macular degeneration are typically lacking ApoM.
The study involved giving a blood transfusion to mice that had macular degeneration to increase their levels of ApoM. The mice that received the transfusion saw their retinal function improve within 6 weeks and had lowered deposits of cholesterol.
The study findings offer hope that future treatments could be developed that would involve increasing ApoM levels in patients to help treat or possibly prevent the development of age-related macular degeneration.
