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ARMS2 and Age-Related Macular Degeneration: What Your Genotype Means for Eye Health

Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD, is a common cause of vision loss in older adults. The ARMS2 gene contains a variant at rs10490924 that is linked to an increased risk of developing AMD, especially advanced forms that affect central vision. Genetics is one part of the picture. Lifestyle and preventive health care play a large role in supporting long-term vision.

How ARMS2 variants affect the eyes

The ARMS2 gene helps support normal cellular function in the retina. Certain changes in this gene can alter protein behavior and make retinal cells more vulnerable to stress over time. If those changes are present, they raise the likelihood that age-related damage will lead to AMD. That does not mean AMD is certain; it means risk is higher and that preventive measures and monitoring are especially important.

Actionable steps to support vision

  • Diet: Emphasize leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale), colorful fruits (berries, oranges), and foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin (peas, corn). Include omega-3 rich foods such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel) and plant sources like walnuts and chia seeds.
  • Supplements: Consider a supplement regimen discussed with your healthcare provider. Formulations similar to AREDS contain vitamins C and E, zinc, copper, lutein and zeaxanthin and may help slow progression in people at risk for or with intermediate AMD. Do not start supplements without medical guidance.
  • No smoking: Smoking is one of the most significant modifiable risk factors for AMD. Stopping smoking reduces risk and supports overall eye health.
  • Protect eyes from UV and blue light: Wear sunglasses with UV protection and wide-brim hats outdoors. Consider appropriate lens coatings for prolonged digital screen use.
  • Healthy weight and exercise: Maintain a healthy body weight and stay physically active to reduce systemic inflammation and vascular risk factors that can affect the retina.
  • Regular eye exams: Schedule comprehensive eye exams with dilation and retinal imaging as recommended by your eye care provider. Early detection of changes allows for timely management.
  • Manage chronic conditions: Keep blood pressure, blood sugar and cholesterol in target ranges under the care of your medical team.

Monitoring and tests to discuss with your provider

  • Comprehensive dilated eye exam at intervals recommended by your eye care professional.
  • Retinal imaging such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) or fundus photography to document retinal health and detect early signs of AMD.
  • Amsler grid self-check at home to monitor changes in central vision between exams.
  • Blood and metabolic tests as guided by your primary care provider to control systemic risk factors like diabetes and high cholesterol.

Genetic interpretation for rs10490924 (ARMS2)

Two effect alleles (TT) — increased risk

You carry two copies of the T effect allele at rs10490924 in the ARMS2 gene. This genotype is associated with a higher genetic risk of developing age-related macular degeneration, particularly advanced forms that can impair central vision.

What this means for you

  • Your genetic predisposition increases the likelihood that age-related retinal changes could progress to AMD over time.
  • Genetics is one contributor; lifestyle and preventive care strongly influence real-world outcomes.

Recommended next steps

  • Schedule or maintain regular comprehensive eye exams with dilation and retinal imaging as advised by your eye care provider.
  • Discuss with your provider whether an AREDS-style supplement is appropriate for your situation.
  • Adopt a diet rich in leafy greens, colorful fruits, and omega-3s.
  • Stop smoking if you smoke and avoid secondhand smoke.
  • Protect your eyes from UV light and maintain healthy blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol.
One effect allele (GT) — likely increased risk

You carry one copy of the T effect allele at rs10490924 in the ARMS2 gene. This genotype is associated with a likely increased risk of developing AMD compared with people who do not carry the T allele.

What this means for you

  • Your genetic risk is elevated but lower than someone with two copies of the effect allele.
  • An environmental and lifestyle approach can substantially influence whether AMD develops or progresses.

Recommended next steps

  • Keep up with regular eye exams and retinal imaging to detect early changes.
  • Talk with your eye care provider about the potential role of AREDS-style supplements based on your overall eye health.
  • Maintain a nutrient-rich diet with lutein, zeaxanthin, vitamins C and E, zinc, and omega-3s.
  • Avoid smoking, protect eyes from sun exposure, and manage systemic health conditions.
Zero effect alleles (GG) — typical genetic risk

You carry two copies of the G non-effect allele at rs10490924 in the ARMS2 gene. This is the most common genotype and is associated with the typical population risk for AMD rather than an increased genetic risk from this variant.

What this means for you

  • Your ARMS2 genotype does not carry the T variant that increases risk for AMD, but that does not eliminate risk entirely.
  • Environmental factors such as smoking, diet, and systemic health still influence AMD development.

Recommended next steps

  • Continue routine eye care with comprehensive exams and retinal imaging as recommended.
  • Follow a diet high in leafy greens, colorful fruits, and omega-3s and consider discussing supplements with your provider if other risk factors are present.
  • Protect your eyes from UV exposure, avoid smoking, and maintain healthy lifestyle habits to reduce non-genetic risk.

Final notes and limitations

This report describes how a single genetic variant in ARMS2 relates to risk for age-related macular degeneration. AMD is a multifactorial disease influenced by many genes and by environment and behavior. Genetic testing provides risk information but cannot predict with certainty whether you will develop AMD or how quickly it might progress.

PlexusDx does not provide medical advice. Use this information to inform conversations with your healthcare and eye care providers. Always consult your provider before starting or stopping supplements, making major diet changes, or changing medical care. If you experience changes in vision, seek prompt evaluation from an eye care professional.