The complement system and age-related macular degeneration.

Journal article

PURPOSE: Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the developed world. There are increasing evidences to suggest the complement system may play a significant role on the pathogenesis of AMD. In this review, we summarise the current research in this area. METHODS: Review of literature. RESULTS: The complement system is a complex system with several activation pathways. Complement factor H (CFH) polymorphisms has been associated with increase risk of AMD. CFH is an inhibitor protein; the polymorphisms might cause uncontrolled activation by initiation events. CONCLUSION: Further studies on the molecular basis of the complement-mediated pathogenesis of AMD may offer novel therapy to AMD.

Authors: Sivaprasad, S; Chong, N

• Journal: Eye (London, England)
• Volume: 20
• Issue: 8
• Pages: 867-872
• Publication date: 2006-08-01
• DOI: 10.1038/sj.eye.6702176
• EISSN: 1476-5454
• ISSN: 0950-222X
• Language: English
• Keywords: Oxidative Stress; Polymorphism, Genetic; Complement System Proteins; Macular Degeneration; Humans; Neovascularization, Pathologic; Complement Activation