A gene mutation has been linked to age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in the elderly, by three sets of researchers working independently. An estimated 15 million Americans suffer from the disorder, a number expected to double as the baby boom generation ages. Being able to relate a gene mutation to the likelihood of developing the illness may lead to better tests and eventually treatments, the scientists hope. “I don’t think it’s going to be a year or two ... but I’d guess less than 10 years” before a treatment might become available, said Albert O. Edwards, the lead researcher for one group of researchers reporting on the link. In cases of macular degeneration the central region of the eye’s retina deteriorates, damaging or destroying vision. There are no broadly effective treatments, though a recently approved drug can slow the disease for some patients. The new gene findings are reported in separate papers in this week’s online issue of the journal Science. The research groups were led by Edwards, at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Josephine Hoh of Yale University School of Medicine and Margaret A. Pericak-Vance of Duke University Medical Center.
