Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects approximately 8.7% of elderly\npeople worldwide (>55 years old). AMD is characterized by a multifactorial aetiology that involves several genetic and\nenvironmental risk factors (genes, ageing, smoking, family history, dietary habits, oxidative stress, and hypertension). In particular,\nageing and cigarette smoking (including oxidative compounds and reactive oxygen species) have been shown to significantly\nincrease susceptibility to the disease. Furthermore, different genes (CFH, CFI, C2, C3, IL-6, IL-8, and ARMS2) that play a crucial\nrole in the inflammatory pathway have been associated with AMD risk. Several genetic and molecular studies have indicated the\nparticipation of inflammatory molecules (cytokines and chemokines), immune cells (macrophages), and complement proteins in\nthe development and progression of the disease. Taking into consideration the genetic and molecular background, this review\nhighlights the genetic role of inflammatory genes involved in AMD pathogenesis and progression.
Loading....