(Updated 1/23/19) A substance in the body called Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is responsible for the growth of new blood vessels. It promotes this growth by stimulating the endothelial cells, which form the walls of the vessels and transport nutrients and oxygen to the tissues. Evidence shows that when the retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) […]
by Dan Roberts (Updated April 29, 2015) (Reviewed by Martin A. Mainster, Ph.D., M.D., FRCOphth) Audio/visual presentations on all related subjects Recommended books: The First Year: Age-Related Macular Degeneration: An Essential Guide for the Newly Diagnosed by Daniel L. Roberts Macular Degeneration: The Complete Guide to Saving and Maximizing Your Sight by Lylas Mogk, M.D. […]
by Dan Roberts (Updated February 28, 2012) Fenretinide (RT-101), a drug that has been used to treat certain cancers, rheumatoid arthritis, acne, and psoriasis, has been found to also slow the production and accumulation of a toxin that leads to vision loss in Stargardt’s patients. The toxin, called A2E, is a byproduct of vitamin A, […]
by Dan Roberts February 2008 CD36 is a protein molecule (called an “integral membrane protein”) permanently attached to the surface of certain human cells. It plays a role in the inflammation process, but researchers have now discovered that a deficiency of the protein may cause the dry form of macular degeneration. Researchers reported that deficiency […]