Our research projects
Since 1987 the Macular Society has invested over £5.1 million in 73 different research projects. Each year we invite applications for research grants and PhD studentships which are assessed by our Research Committee.

Developing eye drops that can reach the back of the eye
Developing eye drops to reach the macula at the back of the eye. To treat macular diseases such as wet age-related macular disease.

Using Artificial Intelligence to predict AMD progression
Using a new artificial intelligence programme to understand the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Switching off the genes that cause Best disease
Researching using a new gene editing technique to turn off the faulty gene that causes vision loss in Best disease.

Finding a new test for early AMD
Using new technology to discover whether trouble adjusting to changes in light, is linked to early age-related macular disease (AMD) and why.

An implantable eye lens for macular disease
Magnifying intraocular lenses can be given to patients with macular disease. This will be the first trial to see if they help.

Creating a blood test to detect early AMD
Research is looking into a protein found in high levels in retinal cells of age-related macular disease patients. This protein could be used for treatment or diagnosis.

A virtual visually impaired rehabilitation assistant
This project is looking to create a ‘chat-bot’ to help answer patients’ questions about their macular disease or living with sight loss.

Improving the integration of stem cell transplants in the retina
Stem cell therapy is a promising area of research for a treatment for macular disease.

Investigating early onset macular degeneration
Research to better understand early onset macular degeneration, and how it may provide insight into causes and treatment of age-related macular degeneration.

Investigating how eye doctors discuss AMD with patients
Researching and giving guidelines on how ophthalmologists discuss lifestyle changes with dry age-related macular degeneration patients.

New treatment option for wet AMD
Looking at a new protein for treating those with wet AMD who do not respond to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs.

Stopping the build-up of toxic waste in dry AMD
Research looking into the removal of toxic waste in cells of the retina that could lead to dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Turning off faulty genes to treat macular dystrophy
New research using antisense oligonucleotide gene therapy to treat Doyne honeycomb dystrophy, a dominant genetic macular disease.

Using data science to diagnose AMD sooner and detect change over time
Using data from thousands of patients. Researchers want to better understand the factors involved in the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Using technology to aid functional vision
Creating a new application to help those with central vision loss be able to use their smartphones and tablets better, quicker and easier.

Using gene editing to stop progression of Stargardt disease
In Stargardt disease the mutation in the ABCA4 gene leads to damage to the macula. This work aims to create healthy ABCA4 protein using gene editing.