Macular Degeneration Research
Macular Degeneration Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program, accelerates groundbreaking research exploring the root causes of and prevention strategies and treatments for macular degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss.
Our Impact: Making a Difference
Macular Degeneration Research is currently supporting a global portfolio of 58 active scientific projects, a more than $17 million investment. Our grants are vetted through a rigorous evaluation process by the world’s top scientists and clinicians who serve on our scientific review committee.
With our grants, scientists are investigating hundreds of ideas to prevent, treat, and cure macular degeneration.
58
Active research grants we’re supporting worldwide
191
Scientists currently supported through our grants
~$50M
Invested in macular degeneration research since inception.
Recent News
News & Breakthroughs
How an Innovative Night Vision Test Could Enable Earlier Detection of Age-Related Macular Degeneration
A BrightFocus Foundation Macular Degeneration Research grant recipient aims to bridge the gap in available testing for AMD and detect the condition as early as possible.
Inflammation and Sex Differences Could Hold Clues to Macular Degeneration
Increased eye inflammation with age may contribute to macular degeneration and present differently between sexes, suggests a new BrightFocus-funded study.
Could Improving Blood Flow to the Eye Unlock Future Treatments for Macular Degeneration?
Discover research led by BrightFocus Foundation Macular Degeneration Research grant recipient, Dr. Albert Gonzales on how enhancing blood flow to the eye could lead to new treatments for macular degeneration.
Researching Risks and Restoration for Geographic Atrophy
BrightFocus President and CEO Stacy Pagos Haller spoke with WebMD’s Chief Medical Officer John Whyte, MD, MPH, as part of its “Champions for Change” series to discuss the progress being made to advance the understanding of geographic atrophy, which affects around 1 million people in the U.S.
Unlocking Secrets of Waste Disposal in the Eye
Explore research into the eye’s intricate waste disposal system, crucial in preventing macular degeneration.
BrightFocus Foundation and Vision Loss Advocacy Groups Partners Declare December 5 as World Geographic Atrophy Day
BrightFocus Foundation, in partnership with three other global vision loss advocacy organizations, has declared Dec. 5 as World Geographic Atrophy Day.
Possible Stargardt Disease Treatment Shows Promise
Research breakthrough gives hope to those suffering from a genetic form of macular degeneration known as Stargardt disease.
Global Gathering of Vision Researchers Tackle Macular Degeneration
BrightFocus Foundation’s second Macular Fast Track program will train promising graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and other early-career scientists to help speed progress toward a cure for macular degeneration.
FDA Approves New Dose of Existing Drug to Treat Macular Degeneration
The FDA approves a higher dose of Eylea® to treat wet age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, and diabetic retinopathy.
Why It Matters
Why Research Matters
Advanced macular degeneration is a leading cause of irreversible blindness and visual impairment in the world.
Approximately 200 million people worldwide are thought to be living with macular degeneration–a number expected to reach 288 million by 2040.
Macular Degeneration Research invests in groundbreaking research worldwide to defeat macular degeneration, pursuing innovative treatments, preventative measures, and a cure.
Our Approach to Research
Macular Degeneration Research takes a 360-degree approach to funding innovative scientific research worldwide to defeat macular degeneration. By examining the disease from all angles–from the impact of diet and nutrition to cell regeneration– we leave no stone unturned to discover improved treatments, prevention strategies, and a cure.
Resources
We’re here for you.
Wet AMD Treatments: Updates, Challenges, and Future Innovations
Join us for an in-depth discussion on the latest developments in wet age-related macular degeneration treatment.
Adapting to Life with Low Vision
Learn about practical tips for maintaining quality of life with low vision.
Top 5 Expert Answers About Stargardt Disease
Explore key facts about Stargardt disease, a rare form of juvenile macular degeneration, with expert insights from a retina specialist.
Taking Charge of Your Geographic Atrophy
Hear from guest expert Dr. Veeral Sheth about the latest treatments and research breakthroughs for geographic atrophy, and what you can do to protect your vision.
Understanding Stargardt Disease
Join us for an in-depth discussion on Stargardt disease, a rare inherited form of juvenile macular degeneration that affects about 1 in 10,000 children and young adults. Learn about the latest in diagnosis, genetic testing, and promising treatments.
Promising Studies Funded by Macular Degeneration Research
Explore groundbreaking macular degeneration research. Learn about research aimed at earlier detection, prevention, and ultimately a cure.
How Diet and Nutrition Impact Macular Degeneration
Learn about the connection between diet, nutrition, and macular degeneration, and the role of the gut microbiome in vision health.
Can Stem Cells Improve Vision in People with Macular Degeneration?
Learn about the latest research findings and potential for stem cell therapy in macular degeneration here.
Geographic Atrophy: Your Questions Answered
Guest expert Dr. Philip Niles shared what you need to know about identifying, preventing, and treating geographic atrophy and delved into the landscape of available treatments.
Help fund more research breakthroughs.
Your support is crucial in advancing research to find cures and providing valuable information to the public. There are many ways to tailor your tax-deductible gift to end diseases of mind and sight.
Grants & Scientists
Apply for a Research Grant
Macular Degeneration Research provides research funds for U.S. domestic and international researchers pursuing pioneering research leading to greater understanding, prevention, and treatment for macular degeneration.