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In 1997, a team of researchers reported that a gene named abcr is present in people with the type of juvenile macular degeneration called Stargardt's
disease. They then found abcr was also present in 16% of people with Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD). This was the first evidence that at least some cases of ARMD have a genetic basis. [See: Report] To extend the study, the research team is looking for families in which there have been multiple occurrences of Juvenile Macular Degeneration (JMD) and/or ARMD. We at the
Macular Degeneration Foundation believe that this line of research offers the best opportunity for gaining a better understanding of both JMD and ARMD, an understanding which should lead to ways to prevent and treat
macular degeneration. Therefore, MDF is helping the researchers find such families. If your family, or a family you know of, has had multiple occurrences of JMD and/or ARMD, please email
the following information to the MDF's Scientific Officer, Dr. Philip Filner: 1] the name, address and phone number (or email address if available) of the family member to contact 2] a statement of which family
members have macular degeneration and how they are related Thank you, Dr. Philip Filner Ph.D.
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