Glaucoma genomics
Study genetic variation associated with glaucoma and blindness, with attention to African ancestry and diversity.
A focused programme within AfriGEN
AGES: advancing glaucoma genetics in African populations.
AGES—the African Glaucoma Genetics Research Network—brings researchers, eye-care professionals and communities together around the genetic underpinnings of glaucoma, supported by careful clinical evidence, responsible analysis and public trust.
AGES within AfriGEN
A dedicated home for the network's genetics work.
The African Glaucoma Genetics Research Network (AGES) is the genetics-focused programme within the African Glaucoma Research Network (AfriGEN).
This structure preserves the established body of glaucoma genomics work while AfriGEN provides the wider umbrella for research collaboration, professional capacity, community engagement, eye-health information and the translation of evidence into care and policy.
The programme connects detailed eye examinations and family history with genomic research. It also considers how people understand genetics, what influences participation and how findings should be shared with communities and professionals.
Programme priorities
Four connected areas of AGES research.
Each priority strengthens the path from high-quality evidence to research that is useful, trusted and relevant to African populations.
Clinical phenotyping
Build reliable datasets through careful diagnosis, eye examinations, family information and consistent study methods.
Community perspectives
Understand knowledge, concerns and preferences around genomic research and participation.
Research capacity
Strengthen African scientific leadership, interdisciplinary skills, collaboration and responsible data practice.
AGES research foundation
Genomics, clinical evidence and community perspectives.
The programme's published work connects laboratory questions with carefully characterised clinical data and real-world participation. AGES distinguishes completed or published studies from continuing research priorities and links each highlighted output to its publication record.
Published work
Research underpinning the AGES programme.
These records cover study methodology and community perspectives central to African glaucoma genetics research.
2021
Eyes of Africa: The Genetics of Blindness
A collaborative case-control and family study designed to support genome-wide association and exome sequencing research.
Read the publication record2022
Genomics and ocular disease perspectives in Ibadan
A qualitative study exploring understanding of genomics, willingness to participate, sample preferences and the need for public sensitisation and participant-centred procedures.
Read the publication recordWork with AGES
Bring a genetics question, capability or partnership.
Researchers, clinicians, genomic scientists, data specialists, social scientists, community organisations and potential funders can contact AfriGEN about work aligned with AGES and the network's ethical commitments.
Discuss an AGES collaboration