The Proteomics of Drusen

Abstract

The formation of extracellular deposits known as drusen below the macular region of the retina correlates with increased risk of severe visual loss from age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Inflammation and complement dysregulation contribute to AMD progression; however, disease mechanisms remain incompletely defined. Multiple genetic and environmental factors influence AMD pathology, and although immune system processes play a central role, multiple molecular mechanisms appear to be involved. Drusen proteomics, including the analyses of constituent proteins, oxidative protein modifications, and pattern recognition receptors, provide a foundation for deciphering mechanisms of drusen biogenesis and AMD pathology.