A new treatment to prevent age-related macular degeneration

Miguel Seabra

  • PROJECT LEADER

    Miguel Seabra

  • HOST ORGANIZATION,
    COUNTRY

    NOVA Medical School, Universidade NOVA de Lisboa, NMS|NOVA, Portugal

  • DESCRIPTION

    Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a retinal degenerative disease that causes a progressive impairment of the central vision. AMD is the leading cause of irreversible blindness in developed countries and is currently incurable. The disease is caused by the death of a specific type of cells named photoreceptors, in the area of the retina responsible for high-resolution vision, the macula.

    The researchers have already found strong new evidence that the NRF2 protein plays a key role in macula protection, preventing these cells from dying during AMD. Accordingly, in this project they will explore the protective role that NRF2 may play in AMD before it is irreversible and causes permanent damage. Laboratory-based studies will aim at selecting the best molecule that activates NRF2 and protects the retina. Simultaneously, these studies will be complemented by a clinical observational study in patients, who are prescribed an NRF2-activating drug already in clinical use. The results of this study could pave the way towards the development of a much sought-after AMD preventive treatment, as well as other chronic age-related diseases.

  • PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS

    Antonio Cuadrado, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain

  • PROJECT TITLE

    NRF2 as a novel therapeutic target in early and intermediate age-related macular degeneration

  • BUDGET

    €985,013