Scientists have discovered the first evidence of genes that cause Macular Telangiectasia type 2 (MacTel), a degenerative eye disease which leads to blindness and is currently incurable and untreatable. The team’s findings established five key regions — or loci — in the genome most likely to influence a person’s risk of developing MacTel. The finding will enable researchers to better understand the disease and look for ways to prevent or stop its progression.