Research and Developments
Though not proven, some research suggests that exposure to bright light may lead to damage of the retina. While there is no cure or treatment of Stargardt's, wearing glasses that block 100% of UV light will reduce the likelihood of further damage caused by the sun, or your eye optometrist may prescribe lenses that block specific wavelengths of light.
There are a number of longitudinal studies in progress that are following people with the ABCA4 gene mutation over the course of several years to document their symptoms and the progression of the disease.
Scientists continue to research different mutations of the ABCA4 gene to better understand the causes of the disease.
Possible Treatment Research
There are a few promising research studies taking place.
Case Western Reserve University has been some trail research on various drugs that have been shown to reduce retinal damage in mice.
StarGen is working on gene replacement therapy. They have been testing ways to replace the ABCA4 gene in mice.
Columbia University is researching a synthetic vitamin A substitute that doesn't produce the same by-products that cause damage to the retina.
-Stem-cell research is another promising option for treating the disease.
There are a number of longitudinal studies in progress that are following people with the ABCA4 gene mutation over the course of several years to document their symptoms and the progression of the disease.
Scientists continue to research different mutations of the ABCA4 gene to better understand the causes of the disease.
Possible Treatment Research
There are a few promising research studies taking place.
Case Western Reserve University has been some trail research on various drugs that have been shown to reduce retinal damage in mice.
StarGen is working on gene replacement therapy. They have been testing ways to replace the ABCA4 gene in mice.
Columbia University is researching a synthetic vitamin A substitute that doesn't produce the same by-products that cause damage to the retina.
-Stem-cell research is another promising option for treating the disease.