Using the iPSC derived RPE cells generated from low‐ and high‐risk donors in the absence of any stress stimuli, we have been able to confirm several key cellular features of AMD as follows: (a) increased expression of inflammatory markers (for example IL1β); (b) lower expression of the protective oxidative stress markers (SOD2); (c) increased number of stress vacuoles (and their surface area); (d) increased accumulation of lipid droplets; and (e) increased expression of LC3 vesicles and higher p62 expression/aggregate suggestive of impaired autophagy. The gene discussed is IL1B; the disease is age-related macular degeneration.