Researchers identify two genes that increase risk of AMD

Utilizing a new genetic mapping technique, researchers at the University of Michigan discovered two connecting genes that raise the risk of macular degeneration when they are defective. The new method of mapping genes uses ancestry-matched controls from existing gene databases which is something that had not been done before. Researchers examined 2,335 cases and 789 controls with the majority of the samples coming from a database at the Kellogg Eye Center. The research team searched already sequenced individuals with similar ancestry to macular degeneration cases that University of Michigan researchers were studying. All of the matches were then put in the control group which led to pinpointing the genetic variants. With these new findings, researchers hope that new treatments will be able to be targeted toward customization based upon a person's individual DNA findings.*