Researchers have identified important biological differences in certain forms of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a discovery that may support the development of more personalized treatments for individuals at higher risk of severe vision loss. The findings were published in Genome Medicine.

AMD is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, affecting approximately one in seven Australians over the age of 50 and nearly 196 million people globally. Existing therapies can only slow the disease after significant retinal damage has already occurred and are effective for only a subset of patients.

The study was led by researchers from the University of Melbourne, Centre for Eye Research Australia, and Garvan Institute of Medical Research. The team focused on a subtype of AMD marked by retinal deposits known as reticular pseudodrusen, which are associated with a greater likelihood of progressing to advanced disease stages.

Scientists collected skin biopsy samples from more than 100 Australians with AMD, including patients both with and without reticular pseudodrusen. Using stem cell technology, they transformed these skin cells into retinal cells in the laboratory and analyzed differences in gene and protein activity between the groups.

Lead author Alice Pébay explained that patients with reticular pseudodrusen appear to exhibit distinct biological mechanisms compared to more common forms of AMD. The study highlighted stronger involvement of cellular support and structural stability pathways, suggesting that AMD is not a single disease but rather a collection of biologically diverse conditions.

Co-lead author Robyn Guymer noted that the findings reinforce the need for more individualized approaches to AMD treatment, as therapies effective for one subtype may not benefit another.

The research was conducted as part of the Synergy High Risk AMD Project, a collaborative initiative involving CERA, the University of Melbourne, and WEHI, funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council.

Source: https://www.unimelb.edu.au/newsroom/news/2026/may/new-findings-provide-clues-for-severe-age-related-macular-degeneration