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The role of the protein ABCC5 in diabetic macular oedema
Prof Heidi de Wet, University of Oxford - £25,000
This research project investigates the protein ABCC5 and its role in diabetic macular oedema (DMO).
The zebrafish’s high-acuity zone as a novel model for the human macula
Dr Takeshi Yoshimatsu, University of Sussex - £25,000
Only humans and primates have a macula, this creates a challenge for researchers trying to model macular disease. This research from Sussex University is investigating whether cells from the zebrafish eye can be manipulated to create a macula which can be used in future research.
Improving reading aids for those with macular conditions
Dr Dirk Seidel, Glasgow Caledonian University - £23,396
Macular damage impairs the ability to scan text. A healthy eye has pauses in the scanning process and this improves reading speed, accuracy and the overall pleasure in reading. This project will try to improve reading apps by mimicking these natural features of the eye.
How the genetics of fat metabolism influence AMD development
Dr Samantha de Silva, University of Oxford - £24,930
Establishing the link between the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene and lipid (fat) metabolism and learning what effect this has on the development of AMD.
Investigating the genetic roots of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) retinopathy
Professor Susan Downes, Oxford University - £21,380
This project aims to identify the gene that causes some people who are prescribed hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) to develop retinopathy after long term use.
For macular researchers
Research
The importance of research into macular disease
Research into macular disease is underfunded in the UK. However, we see first-hand how important research can be for those with macular conditions. Every day we hear of the hope and faith our members have in the research we fund, and in all the research that goes on in the field.
Our research policies
For macular researchers
As a member of the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) we have to follow a number of research policies. These policies aim to ensure the best quality research is funded, and to support the research and patient communities, to drive forward positive change.
Use of Animals in research
Our research policies
The Macular Society supports the principle of using animals in research when it is necessary to advance understanding of health and disease and to develop new treatments. This research only takes place where there is no alternative available.
Committee conflicts of interest policy
Our research policies
1. General
a. This policy relates to the Research Committee, its Chair and other members.
Research Committee member rotation policy
Our research policies
- Membership of the Research Committee will be for a minimum of three years.
- Membership can be renewed for up to a further three years, by mutual agreement with the Chair of the Committee.
- All members of the Research Committee should be rotated off after six years of service.
- Individuals can re-join the committee after a three year gap.
- Membership will be staggered to ensure continuity of the Research Committee and a clear plan for membership rotation will be developed and maintained.
In order to ensure independent decision making, no more than two Macular Society trustees will sit on the Research Committee at any one time.