Innovative technologies for the treatment of dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) - modern therapeutic perspectives and their future

TL;DR

This review explores new treatments for dry AMD, a challenging eye condition, focusing on therapies that may slow progression and improve patient outcomes.

Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive overview of innovative therapies and technologies for dry AMD, highlighting their potential to transform treatment approaches.

Findings

AREDS/AREDS2 supplementation slows AMD progression but cannot reverse retinal damage.

Molecularly targeted therapies like Pegcetacoplan and gene therapy HMR59 show promise in reducing inflammation and protecting retinal cells.

AI and light-based therapies offer new tools for predicting disease progression and improving mitochondrial function.

Abstract

This review explores modern therapeutic options for the dry form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition representing one of the most significant challenges in ophthalmology due to its progressive nature and lack of effective treatment. The study discusses innovative approaches, evaluates available methods, and examines the potential of emerging technologies to improve patients’ quality of life.

A comprehensive review of current literature was conducted, being focused on therapies for dry AMD, including classical methods such as AREDS/AREDS2 supplementation, molecularly targeted drugs, gene therapy, cell transplants, tissue engineering, nanotechnology, and light-based therapies. Emerging tools leveraging artificial intelligence for personalized treatment and predictive modeling were also evaluated.

AREDS/AREDS2 therapies effectively slow disease progression but cannot reverse retinal damage. Advances include molecularly targeted therapies (Pegcetacoplan, Avacincaptad Pegol) that reduce inflammation, gene therapy (HMR59) protecting RPE cells, and mitochondria-targeted drugs (SS-31) mitigating oxidative stress. Using scaffolds, nanoparticles, tissue engineering, and nanotechnology enhances RPE regeneration and drug delivery. Light-based therapies (LLLT, adaptive phototherapy) improve mitochondrial function, while AI aids in predicting disease progression and personalizing treatment.

Modern therapeutic approaches for dry AMD provide promising avenues to slow disease progression and protect vision. However, further clinical trials are needed to optimize these strategies, assess long-term outcomes, and expand patient access to effective treatments. These advancements have the potential to significantly improve the quality of life for individuals affected by dry AMD.