Inherited Retinal Diseases (IRDs)

Why in News?

According to a recent study, there is a higher prevalence of Inherited Retinal Diseases (IRDs) situation in India.

• IRDs – It is a genetic disorder, a change or a variant, in one or more genes that contribute to proper retinal function.
• Genetic mutations – It stems from mutations in more than 300 genes responsible for the function of the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.
• It varies significantly across different communities, and it is difficult to identify common mutations.
• Impacts – It affects the gene’s ability to do its job properly.
• The mistake gene doesn’t make a protein and cells in the retina degenerate and cause vision loss.
• Vulnerables – It affects individuals of all ages.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 2.2 billion people worldwide experience some form of vision impairment.

• Causes – Lose sight shortly after birth
  • Gradual deterioration over time
  • Progressive vision loss
  • Often resulting in blindness.
• Treatment - Gene therapy – It is for blindness caused by mutations in the RPE65 genes and treat various inherited eye disorders.
• RNA-based therapies – To restore protein production in retinal cells without altering the underlying DNA.
• Treat retinal degenerative diseases caused by single-point mutations.

Studies have revealed significantly higher prevalence, with 1 in 372 individuals in rural South India, 1 in 930 in urban South India, and 1 in 750 in rural Central India affected by these conditions.

References

1. The Hindu| IRDs Treatment & Precision Therapeutics
2. Prevent Blindness| Inherited Retinal Diseases (IRDs)