a Shared Vision

Retinal gene therapy research is bringing hope to the inherited retinal disease (IRD) community.

 
Featured
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs).

The conditions vary, but those with IRDs may face many similar challenges, including night blindness (nyctalopia), declining vision, or blindness at birth. 

See the conditions

Cutting edge science.

Are you following the always evolving field of gene therapy research? Deepen your understanding of how researchers are approaching IRDs in this fascinating field.

See how it works

Pinpoint your mutation location.

Science can now decipher which gene is responsible for causing a number of IRDs. Here’s a simple overview to help you understand the basics of the genetic testing process.

Learn about genetic testing

Viral vector

The role of the viral vector in today’s gene therapy advancements.

Scientists in the field of gene therapy can deliver a functioning gene into the retina of the human eye, using viruses as the transporter of that gene. The viral vector is the microscopic powerhouse in these efforts—and something you will want to know about!

cta-graphic-newsletter.png

Stay informed.

The understanding of IRDs, and the potential for science to address these genetic conditions, is always evolving. Get our newsletter to stay up-to-date.

 

What’s new.

We are constantly connecting with folks in the IRD community to bring new stories to aSharedVision. Check out the latest additions.

 

Featured
Connecting you to low-vision services: Joseph Hall, Sr. and The Chicago Lighthouse
Connecting you to low-vision services: Joseph Hall, Sr. and The Chicago Lighthouse

Retinitis pigmentosa may have changed the arc of Joseph Hall’s life, but the Chicago man’s contagious optimism serves him well. Read more

The undeniable case for genetic testing
The undeniable case for genetic testing

Tyler Kitchengs and his grandfather were both diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa as young boys. The difference in their experiences, however, is measured by more than years. Scientific advances in genetic testing and gene therapy research are transforming the diagnostic journey.
Read their story

Parenting children who have vision loss
Parenting children who have vision loss

Growing up with a sister who slowly lost her sight to retinitis pigmentosa (RP) could never have prepared April Lufriu, former Mrs. World, for the diagnosis of her own two children. Then, when the retinal specialist asked to examine Lufriu’s eyes, the world slid sideways. Read her story

Featured
In it together.
In it together.

We’ve collected and organized some helpful information for the IRD community. You’ll find it right here.

Visit resources