Wet age-related macular degeneration (Wet AMD) is one of the leading causes of severe central vision loss in older adults. Thanks to modern anti-VEGF injections, many patients are able to maintain good vision for years. However, one of the biggest challenges remains the need for regular injections and ongoing hospital visits.
Researchers are now investigating whether gene therapy could change the way Wet AMD is treated in the future.
What is gene therapy?
Unlike conventional anti-VEGF injections, which need to be repeated regularly, gene therapy aims to deliver genetic instructions directly to retinal cells.
The goal is for those cells to produce their own anti-VEGF protein over an extended period, potentially reducing the need for frequent injections while continuing to suppress the abnormal blood vessels responsible for Wet AMD.
Although this approach is still under investigation, it represents one of the most exciting developments in retinal medicine.
ABBV-RGX-314
One of the most closely watched investigational treatments is ABBV-RGX-314, a gene therapy being developed by AbbVie in collaboration with REGENXBIO.
The treatment uses an AAV8 viral vector to deliver a gene that enables retinal cells to produce an anti-VEGF protein continuously. The aim is to provide long-term control of Wet AMD following a single treatment, potentially reducing the burden of repeated injections for suitable patients.
Clinical trials are currently evaluating its safety and effectiveness.
Why could this be important?
For many people living with Wet AMD, treatment is highly effective but requires regular hospital appointments and repeated intravitreal injections.
If gene therapy proves successful, potential advantages may include:
- Fewer anti-VEGF injections
- Reduced treatment burden
- Fewer hospital visits
- More sustained control of retinal disease
- Improved convenience for suitable patients
However, it is important to remember that these potential benefits are still being investigated in ongoing clinical trials.
Is gene therapy available now?
Not yet.
ABBV-RGX-314 remains an investigational treatment and is not currently approved for routine clinical use in the UK.
Although the early research is encouraging, larger clinical trials are still underway to establish its long-term safety and effectiveness before it can become part of standard care.
Looking ahead
Retinal medicine continues to evolve rapidly. Alongside newer anti-VEGF medicines such as Eylea® 8 mg, Vabysmo® (faricimab) and Lytenava®, gene therapy represents another exciting area of research that could further improve the management of Wet AMD in the years ahead.
At Edgbaston Eye Clinic, we are committed to keeping patients informed about the latest advances in ophthalmology while providing comprehensive macular assessment using advanced OCT retinal imaging. Although gene therapy is not yet available in routine practice, staying informed about emerging treatments helps patients better understand how retinal care continues to evolve.
Mr Don Williams
Edgbaston Eye Clinic
38 Harborne Road
Edgbaston
Birmingham
B15 3HE