Research at the MAC Center

	Selected Research Papers of the MAC Center

Research is the key to creating a better future for those who now have macular degeneration or who might develop the condition in the future.

The MAC Center is involved in a continuum of research to help people at all stages of macular degeneration. The main research focus of the MAC Center is translational research. Translational research is the process of taking basic research and moving it to the clinical studies phase, which is the last major phase before new practices and treatments become available to the public.

The MAC pursues its research goals in its lab in the Phillips-Wangensteen building and through partnerships and associations with prominent researchers at the University of Minnesota and across the country. Below is a list, with a short description, of some of the important research projects currently active at the MAC.

The Minnesota Grading System (MGS). This NIH-funded project grades human eyes, obtained through the eye bank, at each step of the nine step severity scale identified by the Age-related Eye Disease Study (AREDS). This grading system will assist researchers around the world in analyzing both the proteomics and genomics of AMD.

Novel Drug Delivery Systems. The MAC is involved in three projects helping to develop improved drug delivery to the eye.

1. We are studying the cannulation (inserting a small tube) of the suprachoroidal space using a microcannulation system designed by industry sponsors.
2. We are studying the use of extraocular implants to deliver drugs through the sclera.
3. We are exploring the use of a new nano-particle drug system to improve drug delivery to critical regions of the eye.

Retinopathy Involved with Cystic Fibrosis Related Diabetes. We are working with Professor Antoinette Moran, M.D., of the University’s Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, to create imaging that helps identify the retinopathy that occurs with cystic fibrosis.

Clinical Trials. Currently we are involved in several clinical trials, including trails that investigate the following:

1. New therapies and treatments for diabetic-related eye disease.
2. Novel pharmacotherapies for AMD.
3. The role of photodynamic therapy combined with intravitreal triamcinolone for the treatment of exudative AMD.
4. Treatment for diabetic macular degeneration disorders.
5. Treatment for venous occlusion and associated vision loss.

Translational Strategies Targeting Stages of Age-related Macular Degeneration. We are seeking additional funding from both private and government sources to fund projects that would simultaneously explore a variety of potential treatments with the goal of advancing these treatments to the clinical trial stage. This interdisciplinary work involves investigators from several health-related and engineering disciplines at the University of MN and prominent investigators from other prestigious universities in the United States and Europe.

Recent results of our research include:

1. Devised a new method of drug delivery using the suprachoroidal space.
2. Developed a surgical technique to treat advanced AMD.
3. Identified early biochemical changes and potential therapeutic targets in AMD.
4. Evaluated new drugs to slow the degenerative processes in AMD.
5. Discovered a unique form of maculopathy that is found in chorioretinal folds.

For access to scientific papers on current and past research, see the publication sections for Timothy Olsen and Deborah Ferrington.