Department of Biological Engineering

Utah State University

Logan, UT

BASIC RESEARCH PROJECT

Analyzing the relationship between Bruch’s Membrane and AMD Progression

Research Interests

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of blindness, starting with drusen deposits in the eye and progressing to cell death and vision loss. Current treatments mainly target advanced stages, leaving early stages less addressed. This study uses a model mimicking aged eye tissue to understand how changes in the eye contribute to AMD. By studying these changes, the goal is to find new treatments to protect eye cells from damage, slow disease progression, and improve patients’ quality of life. The research focuses on oxidative stress and immune system dysregulation (as complement factors) as key causes in AMD development.

Plans for 2025

Dr. Vargis aims to understand how aging changes in Bruch’s membrane affect the development of AMD. Current treatments mainly target late-stage AMD, leaving early stages untreated. By using a model that mimics aged Bruch’s membrane, the study will identify early markers of disease and test the effects of antioxidant and complement-blocking treatments. The goal is to find new ways to prevent or slow down AMD progression, ultimately preserving vision.