The Unique Photo-toxic Properties of Pyridinium Bis-retinoid Compounds

Authors

Matthew Sparks, Brigham Young University
Dr. Heidi Vollmer-Snarr, Brigham Young University

Keywords

photo-toxic, pyridinium bis-retinoid, age-related macular degeneration, AMD

College

Physical and Mathematical Sciences

Department

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Abstract

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an ocular disease that currently afflicts approximately 25–30 million people around the globe.1,2 The disease is characterized by the destruction of the macula, the central region of the retina. As the disease progresses, central vision becomes distorted, clouded, and eventually lost entirely.3 Although currently receiving much attention from researchers, the chemical pathway(s) causing the disease have remained elusive. Much research has focused on A2E, the most commonly known photo-toxic compound implicated in AMD pathogenesis.

Recommended Citation

Sparks, Matthew and Vollmer-Snarr, Dr. Heidi (2013) "The Unique Photo-toxic Properties of Pyridinium Bis-retinoid Compounds," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2013: Iss. 1, Article 2551.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2013/iss1/2551