Promising mRNA Vaccine Offers New Hope for Age-Related Macular Degeneration Treatment

Researchers from Japan have developed an innovative mRNA vaccine that shows significant potential in treating age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss among the elderly. The vaccine targets abnormal blood vessel growth, known as neovascularization, which is characteristic of the wet form of AMD. In experimental studies using mouse models, the vaccine was administered via intramuscular injection—a much less invasive method compared to the current standard treatments involving frequent eye injections.

The vaccine works by delivering instructions to the body to produce antibodies against a protein called leucine-rich alpha-2-glycoprotein 1 (LRG1). Elevated levels of LRG1 are associated with increased angiogenesis, promoting the growth of abnormal vessels in the retina. By generating targeted antibodies, the vaccine effectively suppresses this pathological vessel formation.

In tests involving two different mouse models of AMD, the vaccine induced a robust immune response after only two doses, approximately two weeks apart. Results showed a significant reduction in abnormal blood vessel growth, with effects observed within a week. Specifically, in the laser-induced model, there was an 85% decrease in leakages and an 82% reduction in lesion size. The natural model experienced a 55% decrease in lesion size by day 28.

Importantly, the vaccine demonstrated a strong safety profile, showing no adverse effects on healthy retinal tissue or normal blood vessel development. It also did not trigger harmful immune responses in other organs, making it comparable in effectiveness to conventional anti-VEGF treatments but with the advantage of requiring only one injection.

This groundbreaking approach, inspired by mRNA technology used during the COVID-19 pandemic, has the potential to transform AMD treatment by offering a more comfortable, accessible, and long-lasting alternative to repeated eye injections. If successful in human trials, it could significantly improve the quality of life for millions of patients worldwide.

The study was led by Professor Satoshi Uchida of Science Tokyo and Visiting Professor Yasuo Yanagi of Yokohama City University. The findings are published in the journal Vaccine and highlight the expanding use of mRNA platforms beyond infectious diseases and cancer, now extending into chronic eye conditions. This innovative strategy may pave the way for new, less invasive therapies that effectively combat neovascular eye diseases, reducing treatment burden and enhancing patient compliance.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-mrna-vaccine-age-macular-degeneration.html