Empowering prevention of Glaucoma*
deCODE´s research has identified two sequence variants in a gene called LOXL1 that significantly increase the risk of developing exfoliation glaucoma. The effect is thought to be through what is called exfoliation syndrome which is characterized by accumulation of abnormal microfibrillar deposits that line the aqueous bathed surfaces of the anterior segment of the eye.
According to deCODE’s research the effect of the identified genetic risk variants seem to be in addition to and independent of other known risk factors such as intraocular pressure and age. This means that even though at this point in time there is no known remedy or actions that can be specifically taken to counteract the genetic risk associated with the LOXL1 variants, the overall risk for vision loss as a consequence of undetected exfoliation glaucoma may be decreased through frequent eye exams and physician recommended interventions.
Independent of the family history for glaucoma knowing ones genetic make-up in regard to deCODE’s genetic exfoliation glaucoma risk markers is relevant since they may be part of the familial risk or an addition to it.
The deCODE Glaucoma™ test therefore offers a new factor and added weight to the analysis of an individual’s risk for glaucoma which may help the individual and his/her physician to decide on future monitoring, prevention and/or specific treatments.
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