Preventing Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration is a leading cause of blindness for people over the age of 50. Naturally, preventing macular degeneration is a chief priority for scientists. According to new research, the pathway to preventing the common form of eye disease is being laid out. Asst. Engineering Prof. Bradley Gelfand believes that the antidepressant fluoxetine, commonly known by the brand name Prozac, could possibly slow or stop the progression of the condition.

“[Fluoxetine] goes into cells and inhibits an inflammatory pathway known as an inflammasome,” Gelfand said. “It essentially reduces the ability of this inflammasome to become activated.”

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“U.Va. study finds potential treatment breakthrough for blindness cause”