Genetic variants and serum biomarkers of CXCL8, MAP3K7, LTA/TNF, EXOC3L1, PROCR, and TRAF2 in Age-Related macular degeneration: associations with disease risk and therapeutic response

Abstract Since age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible central vision loss in the aging population, it is a significant global health concern. Although anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) treatments are effective, not all patients respond to them fully. This study focuses on key single-nucleotide variants in the CXCL8 (rs2227306), MAP3K7 (rs157432), LTA/TNF (rs2229094), EXOC3L1 (rs868213), PROCR (rs867186), TRAF2 (rs10781522), and serum levels of these genes in AMD development and treatment response. It examines the genetic factors associated with susceptibility to AMD and how they influence response to therapy. The study investigates the relationships between specific genetic variations, serum protein levels, and both exudative and early AMD, as well as responses to anti-VEGF treatment. These findings may help guide risk assessment and personalized AMD therapies.