Using a deep convolutional neural network to analyze retinal thickness data, researchers identified novel genetic loci and associations with systemic diseases, and their findings suggest that retinal imaging could be a biomarker for neurologic and vascular conditions. They found associations with genes previously linked to eye pigmentation and optic nerve abnormalities, and highlighted significant correlations with multiple sclerosis, type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Metabolic influences on retinal health, as well as the impact of omega-3 fatty acids, glucose, triglycerides, and inflammatory biomarkers were also addressed. The researchers emphasized the value of artificial intelligence in processing high-dimensional data and indicated the need for further investigations.

Source: Nature Communications