Factors Impacting AMD Development

KAUNAS, Lithuania—While the pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is complex, there are several risk factors including nutrition and oxidative stress that play a key role, according to a new review (Medicina [Kaunas]. 2010;46(2):89-94). A team from Kaunas University of Medicine noted AMD has a multifactor etiology related to the interrelation of environmental and genetic factors, as well as body characteristics. Pathological changes such as oxidative stress, inflammation, changes in the extracellular matrix and in the biological activity of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) are all associated.

In the area of nutrition, the team noted a high intake of animal fats is associated with an increased risk of AMD, while consuming fish at least twice weekly or any type of nuts reduces AMD risk. Further, low levels of antioxidants including vitamins C and E, carotenoids and zinc may influence the development of AMD. Obesity is also a contributor, with obese individuals facing twice the risk of AMD. Finally, the lysosomes of the RPE are more likely to take up phototoxic pro-oxidative melanin oligomers that can further impact AMD development.