Table 2.

Key Points Identified by Past Research on AMD

1.AMD is a complex, multifactorial disease that likely involves contributions from multiple pathologic processes that lead to photoreceptor death and blindness.

2.Cell-based models have their value but have inherent limitations because of their inability to capture the complexity of the human retina.

3.Rodent animal models, although helpful, have major limitations in their ability to model human disease given their lack of macula in addition to being rod photoreceptor-dominant, nocturnal animals.

4.Anti-VEGF agents have taught us that multiple diseases with heterogeneous underlying etiologies can be managed successfully with a common approach if they share a critical, common process.

5.Lessons from diverse neurodegenerative diseases, including beyond the eye, may be applicable to AMD and may lead unifying therapies that have widespread effects.

AMD = age-related macular degeneration.