Abstract
Presentation Description :
We are developing small molecules to reduce lens stiffness and reverse presbyopia. These molecules, called "aggrelytes," have a unique dual function - they can acetylate lysine residues and reduce disulfide bonds in lens proteins. Previous studies have shown that aggrelyte-2 can increase water solubility in lens proteins and reduce stiffness in mice and human lenses. More recently, we conducted a study using a derivative of aggrelyte-2, called aggrelyte-2A, which, when applied topically to the eyes of mice, successfully reduced stiffness in the lens. More work needs to be done in order to develop aggrelytes into drugs that can potentially reverse presbyopia in humans.
This abstract was presented at the 2024 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Seattle, WA, May 5-9, 2024.