However, on a genetic basis, there is no overlap between the risk genes of AMD (e.g., CFH, C2, C3, CETP, VEGFA, APOE)37,57 and the genes that have an influence on advanced shortening of the telomeres (e.g., TERT, TERC, TRF1, NAF1, RTEL).30 This evidence concerns the gene RTEL1 and age-related macular degeneration.