A recent study was published in the journal Science Advances which sheds light on how a build-up of damaging DNA in the eyes of people with macular degeneration can lead to blindness.
High levels of the toxic, Alu cDNA were linked to patients with geographic atrophy, which is the advanced form of macular degeneration.
Researchers at the University of Virginia School of Medicine discovered the high levels of Alu cDNA in the eye, which triggers harmful inflammation that in turn destroys vital retinal cells.
Working with lab mouse models, researchers believe that HIV drugs known as NRTIs can block the inflammation and protect the retinal cells from dying. Based upon prior study findings that demonstrated that people taking NRTIs were almost 40% less likely to develop dry macular degeneration, researchers believe that additional clinical trials are necessary to determine the efficacy and safety of NRTIs in preventing macular degeneration.
VisiVite offers several AREDS2 supplements for people diagnosed with macular degeneration as well as our VisiVite Balanced Ocular Support for people who have a family history of macular degeneration who are looking to help prevent the onset of macular degeneration.
