Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of irreversible vision loss in the elderly population. AMD is characterized in its late form by neovascularization (wet type) or geographic atrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium cell layer (dry type). Regarding the latter type, there is growing evidence supporting an association between the pathophysiology of dry AMD and key proteins in the complement cascade. The complement cascade works as a central part of the innate immune system by defending against foreign pathogens and modified self-tissues. Through three distinct pathways, a series of plasma and membrane-associated serum proteins are activated upon identification of a foreign entity. Several of these proteins have been implicated in the development and progression of dry AMD. Potential therapeutic targets include C1q, C3, C5, complement factors (B, D, H, I), membrane attack complex, and properdin. In this review, we provide an understanding of the role of the complement system in dry AMD and discuss the emerging therapies in early phase clinical trials. The tentative hope is that these drugs may offer the potential to intervene at earlier stages in dry AMD pathogenesis, thereby preventing progression to late disease.

With the increasing prevalence of diabetic retinopathy (DR), screening is of the utmost importance to prevent vision loss for patients and reduce financial costs for the healthcare system. Unfortunately, it appears that the capacity of optometrists and ophthalmologists to adequately perform in-person screenings of DR will be insufficient within the coming years. Telemedicine offers the opportunity to expand access to screening while reducing the economic and temporal burden associated with current in-person protocols. The present literature review summarizes the latest developments in telemedicine for DR screening, considerations for stakeholders, barriers to implementation, and future directions in this area. As the role of telemedicine in DR screening continues to expand, further work will be necessary to continually optimize practices and improve long-term patient outcomes.

Carbon monoxide (CO) therapy involves the controlled administration of low doses of CO to harness its cytoprotective properties, including anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and vasodilatory effects. Originally studied for its role in cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions, CO therapy is now being explored for its potential in treating ocular diseases. Traditionally recognized for its toxic effects, carbon monoxide is gaining attention as a promising therapeutic agent in ocular medicine. Controlled, low-dose CO therapy has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic benefits in various models of retinal disease, including retinal ischemia-reperfusion injury, optic nerve crush, ocular hypertension, and autoimmune uveitis. This review summarizes key findings from clinical and preclinical studies, highlighting the therapeutic potential of CO. We also explore current and emerging methods of CO delivery, evaluating their safety, efficacy, and applicability in treating retinal disorders.