Methods for treatment, diagnosis, and early detection of dry age-related macular degeneration

OVERVIEW

This Georgetown University novel diagnostic testing method identifies (measures) the expression and activity levels of various biomarkers including SI RT-1, AM PK, PARP2, PGC-1a, and AKT3 to determine whether the tested cells are at risk for developing dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The invention also screens target compounds in their effectiveness in treating dry AMD in a subject. Findings can then be used to treat dry AMD by administering a compound that reduces or induces the activity or expression of various proteins and enzymes.

BACKGROUND

Dry AMD is an eye disease that causes a decline in central vision through the degradation of the macula. It is very common in those over 50 and affects roughly 30-50 million people globally. The early pathobiology of dry AMD still has a lot unknown in addition to there being no known cure. There are also complications involved in delivering the drugs to the posterior portion of the eye. The invention addresses issues related to the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of dry AMD.

Benefit

• • Versatile applications from monitoring to compound screening and treatment for dry AMD
  • Increases diagnostic efficiency as it can detect the activity of multiple biomarkers which are correlated with dry AMD
  • Facilitates the early detection and monitoring of dry AMD which allows for treatment before vision-loss occurs.

Market Application

• These methods can be integrated into routine eye examinations, enhancing AMD screening and management protocols in clinical settings.
• Advances in AMD diagnostics and treatments provide opportunities for drug development and therapeutic innovation in the field of ophthalmology.
• Addresses the growing prevalence of AMD in aging populations, supporting initiatives for maintaining visual health and quality of life.
• Serves as a valuable tool for research institutions and biotech companies studying AMD pathogenesis and developing novel therapeutic interventions.

Publications

Published Patent Application No. US 2023/0417767 A1

Zhang M, Chu Y, Mowery J, Konkel B, Galli S, Theos AC, Golestaneh N. Pgc-1α repression and high-fat diet induce age-related macular degeneration-like phenotypes in mice. Dis Model Mech. 2018 Aug 16;11(9):dmm032698. doi: 10.1242/dmm.032698. PMID: 29925537; PMCID: PMC6176989.

Repressed SIRT1/PGC-1α pathway and mitochondrial disintegration in iPSC-derived RPE disease model of age-related macular degeneration. J Transl Med. 2016 Dec 20;14(1):344. doi: 10.1186/s12967-016-1101-8.