It is widely believed that Wet AMD is triggered by oxygen deprivation, but breaking research suggests that dysfunctional energy metabolism in the eye is the cause. If this is the case, it may be possible to use drugs to help photoreceptors take in nutrients - a whole new avenue to treating diseases like AMD.

Photoreceptors use more energy than any other cell in the human body, and were assumed to be powered by glucose, but the research from Boston Children’s Hospital shows they also need lipids. To ensure an adequate energy supply, the cells have evolved a special ability to switch between energy sources and inhibit energy gathering from alternative sources.

The production of a particular protein as part of this process is known to encourage abnormal blood vessel formation in AMD. While blockers for this protein already exist and are used in AMD treatment, they have systemic side effects.

The new research suggests that blocking the lipid sensor could provide an effective answer. Trials on mice have produced positive results, and the next step will be to see if humans have lipid sensors similar to those in mice. If so, drugs already being developed for the treatment of diabetes could be trialled.

Sources:

1. Science Daily:
   New view of age-related macular degeneration: Fuel-starved light receptors.