Epigenetics and Retinitis Pigmentosa
Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) has long been described as a genetic disease, but the story is more complex.
Dr. Andy Rosenfarb explains that genetics alone cannot account for the different ways RP shows up and progresses among patients.
“In many cases of RP, the genes might be there, but what really drives the damage is the immune system and environmental triggers.”
This is where epigenetics comes in.
What Is Epigenetics?
Epigenetics is the science of how lifestyle and environment influence gene expression.
Genes may provide a predisposition, but outside factors determine whether they are “switched on” or “off.”
In RP, this helps explain:
- Why some patients with similar mutations progress at different speeds.
- Why RP can appear in families with no strong genetic history.
- Why stress and inflammation accelerate vision loss.
Environmental & Lifestyle Triggers in RP
Factors that may worsen RP symptoms include:
- Viral or bacterial infections overstimulating the immune system
- Chronic stress leading to cortisol imbalance and inflammation
- Poor diet or gut dysfunction contributing to immune dysregulation
- Toxic exposures that damage retinal cells
The Role of Stress and Inflammation
Dr. Rosenfarb frequently highlights stress as a key factor in chronic disease, including RP:
- Stress alters blood flow to the eyes.
- It weakens the immune system’s ability to self-regulate.
- It creates oxidative damage in sensitive retinal tissue.
By lowering stress and calming inflammation, patients may slow the rate of retinal degeneration.
Conventional vs Holistic Perspective
- Conventional medicine frames RP as incurable and purely genetic, offering genetic counseling and low-vision aids.
- Holistic medicine sees RP as modifiable through epigenetics, autoimmunity, and lifestyle changes that affect how genes express themselves.
Functional & Holistic Approaches to Epigenetics in RP
Functional Medicine
Targets gut health, detoxification, and systemic inflammation.
Ophthalmic Acupuncture
Improves circulation and supports cellular repair in the retina.
Nutritional & Herbal Support
Antioxidants, omega-3s, and herbal medicine protect cells and modulate gene expression.
Why Epigenetics Offers Hope
Epigenetics means RP is not predetermined.
Even with genetic mutations, lifestyle and environment can influence outcomes.
This gives patients and families a sense of empowerment:
they can take proactive steps to improve their long-term vision health.
Next Steps
If you or a loved one has RP:
- Learn about the causes of RP.
- Explore the autoimmune role.
- Consider prevention strategies that address stress, diet, and environmental triggers.