Why genes matter
Genes exist inside all the cells that make up your body. They contain genetic code (DNA) and provide instructions for constructing proteins, which are the building blocks of our bodies and perform a huge variety of roles.
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Inheritance patterns
Your doctor or genetic counsellor will spend some time asking about other people in your family to try to work out the way in which your particular faulty gene has been passed down through the generations – this is referred to as the inheritance pattern.
Meira GTx announces positive data from phase clinical trial
Biotechnology company MeiraGTx has announced encouraging news from its phase 1/2 clinical trial of botaretigene sparoparvovec (previously known as AAV-RPGR), a gene therapy aimed at X-linked retinitis pigmentosa caused by faults in the RPGR gene.
Exciting developments for new treatment research
In recent years there has, understandably, been a lot of excitement around cutting-edge therapies that target the specific genetic faults underlying inherited sight loss.
Research brings hope for the future
“All the promising research makes you feel like there is light at the end of that very dark tunnel after all.”
Positive early findings from ProQR trial of USH2A therapy
Biotechnology company ProQR has announced encouraging results from its early analysis of the phase 1/2 trial of QR-421a, an innovative approach to treating sight loss caused by mutations in a particular section of the USH2A gene.
A genetic diagnosis for RP can give rise to unexpected surprises
James Birtley is a Retina UK supporter and volunteer who is living with retinitis pigmentosa. He is also a scientist with a particular interest in the structure of proteins, the complex molecules that form the building blocks of our bodies.
Gene therapy treatment Luxturna accepted for use in Scotland
Retina UK is delighted that the Scottish Medicines Consortium (SMC) has accepted the gene therapy Luxturna (voretigene neparvovec) for ongoing use by the NHS in Scotland.
Experimental therapy by Retina UK-funded researchers leads to ‘life changing improvements’
Researchers who received funding from Retina UK have carried out experimental gene therapy that is reported to have led to ‘life changing improvements’ to sight for four children with inherited sight loss.
Look Forward – Summer 2025 – Issue 186
This edition marks the start of the charity's 50th anniversary year. It includes lots of ways to get involved over the next 12 months along with details of our Annual and Professionals' Conferences in September.