Potential role of uric acid in the molecular pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration.

Age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) is the foremost cause of blindness among the elderly population in industrialised countries. Currently, there is no effective treatment for the majority of patients. To develop new and effective modes of therapy, understanding of the molecular basis of the disease is mandatory. Many age-related pathologies have been attributed to cumulative oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen intermediates. There is growing evidence that uric acid has antioxidant properties and it is a naturally occurring antioxidant. Based on antioxidant role in pathogenesis of ARMD and antioxidant properties of uric acid we conclude that altered uric acid metabolism could play a role in ARMD damage and pathogenesis. Future research needs to evaluate uric acid metabolism in ARMD patients.