Macular Chats

BrightFocus Foundation
  • 0.0 (0)
  • MEDICINE
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Macular Chats are a series of free, informative audio conversations hosted by Macular Degeneration Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program, featuring retina specialists and other eye care experts who will discuss various aspects of living with macular degeneration and geographic atrophy. Topics will include macular degeneration treatments, remaining independent, and promising research on the horizon. #Ophthalmology #Macular #MacularDegeneration #GeographicAtrophy #VisionLoss #LowVision

  1. JAN 28

    Can Retinal Implants Restore Vision?

    What if an artificial retina or another type of electronic implant could restore vision? Unlike current therapies that only slow the progression of the disease, retinal prostheses are designed to actually restore vision for people with retinal degeneration. In this Macular Chats episode, we explore this emerging field and break down the different types of implants in development, including the PRIMA implant—the only retinal prosthesis currently in production and the first viable treatment for geographic atrophy from AMD—and look ahead to what’s next in the research pipeline.

    17 min

  2. 11/19/2025

    Supporting the Supporters: Care Partners in Vision Loss

    In recognition of National Caregivers Month, this episode explores the vital role of those who support individuals living with vision loss—whether family members, professionals, or volunteers. Our guests will discuss the emotional, physical, and financial challenges care partners face and share practical resources to help support them.

    44 min

  3. 10/29/2025

    Understanding Stem Cell Research for Macular Degeneration

    Stem cell research is offering new possibilities for treating age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss. In this Macular Chat, Dr. Jeffrey Stern and Dr. Sally Temple, Principal Investigators and Co-Founders of the Neural Stem Cell Institute, will explain what stem cells are, share the latest updates from clinical trials such as Luxa Biotechnology’s RPESC-RPE transplantation, and discuss the safety, outcomes, and future potential of stem cell therapies. They will also address what these advances mean for patients and caregivers today, what clinical trials are available, and what timelines might look like for making these treatments more widely accessible.

    50 min

  4. 09/24/2025

    Saving Sight: How Long-Term Treatment Helps Slow Geographic Atrophy

    Geographic atrophy (GA), an advanced form of age-related macular degeneration, can lead to irreversible vision loss. New long-term data are offering hope that treatment can slow this decline and help preserve sight. Join Dr. Sara Fard, a retina specialist at Illinois Retina Associates, as she explains the benefits of sustained GA treatment, including slowing the rate of vision loss, protecting retinal tissue, and supporting daily visual function.

    32 min

  5. 08/27/2025

    Innovative Science Driving Macular Degeneration Progress

    Ever wonder how Macular Degeneration Research identifies and supports the most promising scientific studies around the world? We recently awarded $3.8 million to researchers advancing bold ideas to better understand, prevent, and treat macular degeneration. In this episode of Macular Chats, Dr. Diane Bovenkamp highlights several of this year’s groundbreaking projects and explain how they’re driving progress in early detection, risk reduction, new treatments—and ultimately, a cure.

    47 min

  6. 07/30/2025

    Vitamins and Supplements for Retinal Health

    Can a simple vitamin or supplement help protect your sight? In this Macular Chats episode, we explore what current science tells us about nutritional approaches to support eye health, particularly in the context of age-related changes in the retina. Join Dr. Brian McKay and Dr. Murray Brilliant for a conversation about the widely used AREDS2 nutrient formula, as well as exciting new research into L-DOPA, a naturally occurring compound that may offer a stronger role for maintaining retinal health.

    51 min

  7. 05/28/2025

    Caring for Your Mental Health After AMD Diagnosis

    This Mental Health Awareness Month, join psychologist Ed McDaniel for an honest conversation about the emotional impact of being diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and/or geographic atrophy (GA). Drawing from both his professional expertise and personal experience, Ed will share strategies for coping with anxiety, grief, and loss of independence—and how to start important conversations about mental health with your eye doctor. Learn about resources that can help you feel less alone.

    50 min

  8. 04/30/2025

    Clinical Trials for AMD

    Join us for a special discussion on clinical trials for macular degeneration. Experts from Genentech will provide an overview of the company’s work in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and geographic atrophy, including the role of clinical trials and how they work. They will also share details about an upcoming clinical trial for geographic atrophy, an advanced form of dry AMD, and what potential participants can expect.

    17 min
See All (138)

About

Macular Chats are a series of free, informative audio conversations hosted by Macular Degeneration Research, a BrightFocus Foundation program, featuring retina specialists and other eye care experts who will discuss various aspects of living with macular degeneration and geographic atrophy. Topics will include macular degeneration treatments, remaining independent, and promising research on the horizon. #Ophthalmology #Macular #MacularDegeneration #GeographicAtrophy #VisionLoss #LowVision

Information

  • Creator
    BrightFocus Foundation
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    138
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Macular Chats
  • Show Website
    Macular Chats