QIMR Berghofer researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery in the largest ever genetic study on cataracts, analyzing the DNA of more than 950,000 people.
The team, led by Associate Professors Miguel Renteria and Puya Gharahkhani, along with researcher Santiago Diaz-Torres, identified 101 regions in the human genome associated with an increased risk of developing cataracts. Of these regions, 57 have not been associated with cataracts before.
The study, published in Nature Communications, not only sheds light on the genetic underpinnings of cataracts but also offers new hope for prevention and treatment. The research suggests that certain drugs could potentially slow or prevent cataract formation, providing an alternative to surgery.
The findings also pave the way for genetic screening to identify individuals at high risk for cataracts, enabling personalized eye health interventions such as limiting UV exposure, wearing protective hats, and managing conditions like diabetes that can impact vision.
More information:
Santiago Diaz-Torres et al, Uncovering genetic loci and biological pathways associated with age-related cataracts through GWAS meta-analysis, Nature Communications (2024). DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-53212-6
Provided by
QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute
Citation:
Australian researchers discover 101 genetic regions linked to cataract risk (2024, November 14)
retrieved 14 November 2024
from https://medicalxpress.com/news/2024-11-australian-genetic-regions-linked-cataract.html
This document is subject to copyright. Apart from any fair dealing for the purpose of private study or research, no
part may be reproduced without the written permission. The content is provided for information purposes only.