We published an original hypothesis in Life Extension Magazine teaching that the macula  is affected by low hormone. 

We believe this because

1. the macula does have the UNIQUE biochemistry to make hormone

2.  blood levels of hormone are very low in macular patients as compared to age matched controls without the disease. 

3.  cholesterol, the building block of hormones exist in drusen. 

4.  Lower hormone levels in macular degeneration patients can account for the increased risk of dementia and cardiovascular disease known to be associated with macular degeneration.

5.  NEW:  Low hormones result in abnormal stem cell physiology.  It is intriguing to think that stem cell dysfunction may be another modulator of macular degeneration.   Drug companies are trying to develop "stem cells" for the macula.   Why not try to activate you own stem cells, first?

We believe that the macula of a patient with macular degeneration is trying to make hormones but it cannot.  The BIG question is whether restoring blood levels of hormones will protect the macula.   We think so.  

Download Neurosteroids and the Retina to better appreciate the role of hormones in the macula.  Another interesting article that I recommend is the Holtorf article.