Researchers discover new genetic markers linked to increased risk of glaucoma

Apr 5 2016

The investigation studied the genetic make up of about 40,000 people and identified five previously unknown genetic areas linked to an increased risk of primary angle closure glaucoma (PACG).

Co-author of the study Professor Jamie Craig from Flinders University in South Australia said PACG symptoms occurred quickly and required immediate medical attention.

“This new discovery provides a handle, to gain an understanding of the mechanisms of the disease. This will help to work out who is at risk of developing angle closure glaucoma so they can have preventative laser treatment before an emergency situation develops,” Prof Craig said.

“We also expect in time, that the improved understanding of the pathways of this disease to lead to new ways to more effectively prevent and treat this serious condition, so that permanent loss of vision does not occur.”

The genetic analysis is by far the largest genome wide association study to date on this condition. It used a combined total of 10,404 cases of angle closure glaucoma and 29,343 normal controls to identify five novel glaucoma markers…

Source: http://www.theleadsouthaustralia.com.au/