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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Genetic counselling
Genetic counsellors are specially trained healthcare professionals with extensive scientific knowledge who spend time talking to families living with inherited conditions.
Webinar: Getting involved with Retina UK, the value of volunteering
Explore the value of volunteering with the Retina UK team, listen as they share their thoughts on volunteering and the benefits it’s brought them. From raising their self esteem and confidence, to securing employment.
Meet our community: Simon Lakin
Simon talks about his experience of genetic testing and counselling.
Unlock Genetics
The aim of these pages is to increase the level of awareness and understanding of genetic testing and genetic counselling among people living with inherited retinal dystrophies, empowering them to make fully informed decisions about their lives, healthcare and family planning.
Eye structure
The eye is a very complex organ. It has a lens at the front which focuses light on to a light sensitive tissue that lines the inside of the back of the eye – this tissue is called the retina.
Hope for the future
In this article, we hear Colin's story and the reasons why he has hope for the future.
About inherited sight loss
Many inherited sight loss conditions occur when cells in the retina, which is the light-sensitive region at the back of the eye, deteriorate in an unpredictable way. These conditions are often referred to as inherited retinal dystrophies.
Diagnosis and beyond
Making yourself aware of the what you are entitled to, and understanding the diagnosis pathway for inherited sight loss, will put you in a stronger position to seek better support.
Light sensing small molecule given green light
Biotechnology company Kiora Pharmaceuticals has been given the go-ahead to start in-human testing of a novel “small molecule” treatment, known as KIO-301, for advanced vision loss in retinitis pigmentosa (RP). The phase 1b clinical trial will take place in Adelaide, Australia, and will begin enrolling participants towards the end of 2022.