Retinal blinding disorders and gene therapy--molecular and clinical aspects

Retinal blinding disorders together have a prevalence of 1 in 2000 humans world wide and represent a significant impact on the quality of life as well as the possibility to attain personal achievements. Mutations in genes that are expressed either in RPE cells, photoreceptors or bipolar cells can cause varying forms of degenerative or stationary retinal disorders, as the presence of the encoded proteins is crucial for normal function, maintenance and synaptic interaction. The degree of damage caused by different mutations depends upon the type of mutation within the gene, resulting in either total absence or the presence of a non-functional or potentially toxic protein. Potential treatment strategies require the identification of the cell type, in which the mutated gene is expressed for later targeting by viral vector mediated gene transfer. In the first part of this review, the authors present different cellular pathways that take place either in the RPE, photoreceptors, or bipolar cells. Furthermore, the authors demonstrate why genetic and molecular testing methods, which clearly identify the disease causing mutations, are crucial for attaining the correct diagnosis in order to identify patients suitable to be treated by upcoming new therapeutic methods. In the second part, a short clinical classification of the most important forms of retinal blinding disorders is given, together with clinical aspects concerning the problems that arise when facing low residual visual perception and the enormous heterogeneity of symptoms within these disorders.