Macular Chats
Macular Chats are a series of free, informative audio conversations hosted by Macular Degeneration Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program, dedicated to providing valuable insights and support for those affected by macular degeneration.
Register
Upcoming Macular Chats
Can Retinal Implants Restore Vision?
Wednesday, January 28, 2026
1:00 pm EST (please adjust for your time zone)
Featuring: Frank Brodie, MD, Medical Director for Vision and PRIMA, Science Corporation
What if an artificial retina or another type of electronic implant could restore vision? Unlike current therapies that only slow the progression of the disease, retinal prostheses are designed to actually restore vision for people with retinal degeneration. In this Macular Chats episode, we explore this emerging field and break down the different types of implants in development, including the PRIMA implant—the only retinal prosthesis currently in production and the first viable treatment for geographic atrophy from AMD—and look ahead to what’s next in the research pipeline.
Free, Accessible & Interactive
Listen in as vision doctors, retina specialists, and other eye care professionals share the latest research, treatment options, and practical tips for managing the condition. Stay informed and empowered in the fight against macular degeneration.
Two ways to participate:
Receive a Call
Receive an automated phone call at the time of the Chat.
Stream
Stream the audio live on your computer, tablet, or other device.
Catch Up
Missed a Macular Chat Episode?
Supporting the Supporters: Care Partners in Vision Loss
In recognition of National Caregivers Month, this episode explores the vital role of those who support individuals living with vision loss—whether family members, professionals, or volunteers.
Understanding Stem Cell Research for Macular Degeneration
Dr. Jeffrey Stern and Dr. Sally Temple, Principal Investigators and Co-Founders of the Neural Stem Cell Institute, will explain what stem cells are and share the latest updates from clinical trials.
Saving Sight: How Long-Term Treatment Helps Slow Geographic Atrophy
Join Dr. Sara Fard, a retina specialist at Illinois Retina Associates, as she explains the benefits of sustained GA treatment, including slowing the rate of vision loss, protecting retinal tissue, and supporting daily visual function.
Innovative Science Driving Macular Degeneration Progress
Dr. Diane Bovenkamp highlights several of this year’s groundbreaking projects and explain how they’re driving progress in early detection, risk reduction, new treatments—and ultimately, a cure.
Vitamins and Supplements for Retinal Health
Dr. Brian McKay and Dr. Murray Brilliant discuss the widely used AREDS2 nutrient formula and exciting new research into L-DOPA, a naturally occurring compound that may offer a stronger role in maintaining retinal health.
Caring for Your Mental Health After AMD Diagnosis
This Mental Health Awareness Month, join psychologist Ed McDaniel for an honest conversation about the emotional impact of vision loss from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and geographic atrophy.
Clinical Trials for AMD
Join us for a special discussion on clinical trials for macular degeneration.
Light Therapy and Macular Degeneration: What You Need to Know
Join us for a conversation about light therapy and macular degeneration, where we’ll explore how different types of light—blue, red, and sunlight—affect the retina, the science behind light therapy, and the newly approved Valeda red light therapy.
Geographic Atrophy: Making An Informed Treatment Choice
Learn about how to navigate treatment options, engage in shared decision-making with your healthcare team, and maximize your eye health.
Listen to Macular Chats on the go!
Past episodes of Macular Chats are available to listen to as podcasts on the go on YouTube, Spotify, iHeartRadio, Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, and Pandora.
Macular Chat Partners
The Macular Chats program is supported in part by:
