Innate immune biology in age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a neurodegenerative disease and a leading cause of irreversible vision loss in the developed world. While not classically described as an inflammatory disease, a growing body of evidence has implicated several components of the innate immune system in the pathophysiology of age-related macular degeneration. In particular, complement activation, microglial involvement, and blood-retinal-barrier disruption have been shown to play key roles in disease progression, and subsequent vision loss. This review discusses the role of the innate immune system in age-related macular degeneration as well as recent developments in single-cell transcriptomics that help advance the understanding and treatment of age-related macular degeneration. We also explore the several potential therapeutic targets for age-related macular degeneration in the context of innate immune activation.

Automated summary

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a neurodegenerative disease that leads to irreversible vision loss. Recent evidence suggests that the innate immune system, including complement activation, microglial involvement, and blood-retinal-barrier disruption, plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology of AMD. This review explores the role of the innate immune system in AMD and discusses the potential therapeutic targets for AMD in the context of innate immune activation.