Improved Characterization of Early AMD Phenotype by Combining Novel Imaging, Physiological Markers, and Genotypes

Drs. Chi Luu and Robyn Guymer’s team aims to develop realistic and effective diagnostic tests to identify individuals at risk of developing visual loss due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The results from this study will be crucial in the development of effective diagnostics and therapeutics in an emerging world of personalized medicine where different treatment strategies will be required for distinctly different AMD risk groups.

The goal of the project is to determine a complete phenotypic characterization of a large cohort of AMD subjects who are at the extremes of genetic risk using novel imaging and physiological markers.

In this study, Drs. Luu and Guymer’s team will use novel imaging techniques, such as multicolor optical coherence tomography and infrared reflectance imaging, to examine the ultrastructure of the retina and detect subtle changes that are not visible through traditional color photography of the back of the eye or a routine eye examination. The team will then correlate these ultrastructural changes with the physiological (functional) changes and genetic risk. Data from this study will help to characterize the risk of disease progression. This knowledge could help to develop realistic and effective diagnostic tests and treatments for distinct subgroups of early-stage AMD, and aid in the design of clinical trials.

Drs. Luu and Guymer are extremely grateful for your support of this innovative research project, which could potentially have a direct impact on the future management of AMD.