Characterising Phenotypes and Genotypes in a UK Population Cohort
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The Bridlington Eye Assessment Project (BEAP) Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) Study: Characterising Phenotypes and Genotypes in a UK Population Cohort [BEAP-AMD2]
IRAS ID
215114
Contact name
Winfried Amoaku
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Nottingham
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 10 months, 20 days
Research summary
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the commonest cause of irreversible visual loss in the western world. In UK, an estimated 4.6% of population aged 65 years and 15.9% aged 85 years have advanced AMD. AMD results from interactions between genetic and environmental factors. Response to treatments for wet AMD (‘anti-VEGF drugs’ injections) may also depend on genetic differences. Research from our group found over 85% of genetic risk of AMD is contributed to by two major genes commonly, and variations differ in different populations, and lead to differences in appearance, presentation, progression.
We propose to identify associations between clinical appearance in the back of the eye and genetic changes in the individual and how they, together or in isolation influence the occurrence and progression of AMD and response to treatments in a UK population.
Bridlington residents aged 60 years and older will be invited to participate in population study. These individuals will be sent information by post and invited to attend a research clinic in Bridlington. After consent, images will be taken of the back of both eyes. These images will be anonymised and analysed to determine the presence and stage of AMD. Saliva samples will be obtained from each participant for genetic analysis. This information will be anonymised. The images after analysis will be correlated to the participant’s genetic profile.
In order to have a sizeable cohort of nAMD eyes treated with anti-VEGF drugs within the study time, and allow for population variations patients will be recruited from Bridlington/York, and Sherwood Forest Hospital NHS Trusts. Patients receiving regular treatment/monitoring for wet AMD for at least 2 years will be included. After consent, patients will have their treatment records and imaging assessed. Saliva samples will be taken from participants for genetic analysis. All information will be anonymised, and will not affect the care received by participants.REC name
East Midlands - Nottingham 2 Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/EM/0085
Date of REC Opinion
4 Apr 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion