Innovative Laser Therapy Demonstrates Promise in Slowing Dry Macular Degeneration in Preclinical Trials

Researchers have identified a novel method using laser-based heat therapy that may slow or halt the progression of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a prevalent cause of vision impairment among older adults. This approach has been tested successfully in animal models, with early research indicating potential to address a significant unmet need in ophthalmic care.

Dry macular degeneration is the most common form of AMD, affecting nearly a third of individuals over 80 years old. Characterized by the gradual loss of central vision, dry AMD is caused by the accumulation of protein and lipid deposits, known as drusen, beneath the retina. The buildup results from age-related declines in cellular protective mechanisms, leaving retinal cells vulnerable to oxidative stress and damage.

Currently, there are no effective therapies available for the dry form of AMD, despite its widespread prevalence. The investigative team has developed a treatment that utilizes controlled thermal stimulation delivered via near-infrared laser light. This method aims to activate the retina's intrinsic protective responses without causing tissue injury, overcoming a key challenge in previous attempts at thermal therapy.

The process works by gently raising the temperature of retinal tissues by several degrees, carefully avoiding the threshold at which heat could cause harm. The therapy is designed to trigger the production of heat shock proteins, which play a crucial role in repairing misfolded proteins and supporting cellular health. Should repair be insufficient, these proteins are directed towards safe degradation pathways, minimizing their accumulation and toxicity.

Additionally, the approach stimulates autophagy, a cellular process recognized for its role in clearing out damaged proteins and organelles. Activation of autophagy helps to remove drusen and other harmful deposits, facilitating the maintenance of retinal function. This two-pronged response--repair and removal--addresses the underlying pathophysiology of dry AMD at a cellular level.

Key to the success of the new technique is the ability to monitor tissue temperature in real time during laser exposure, ensuring the safety and precision of the procedure. Preclinical studies involving mice and pigs have shown that the therapy activates beneficial stress responses without causing damage to the retina or surrounding tissues.

Human clinical trials are scheduled to begin, initially focusing on the safety and tolerability of the procedure in participants with early-stage dry AMD. Further research will determine the optimal frequency and long-term efficacy of the treatment. The investigative team anticipates that repeated sessions may be necessary to sustain the therapeutic benefits, as cellular responses can diminish over time.

In anticipation of broader clinical use, efforts are underway to commercialize the technique through a dedicated research-to-business venture. If clinical development proceeds as planned, the therapy could become available at specialized eye clinics within a few years, with the potential to be adopted in routine ophthalmic practice thereafter.

This innovative approach represents a promising step toward addressing the significant burden of dry age-related macular degeneration, offering hope for improved management of a condition that has long lacked effective treatment options.