STAT3 and age-related macular degeneration: In AMD, aging microglia stimulate chronic low-grade inflammatory responses and exacerbate immune-mediated damage to the retina and RPE.238,239 Senescent macrophages in the eyes secrete proinflammatory cytokines via STAT3 signaling, aggravating retinal damage and promoting neovascularization, a hallmark of AMD.240 Mast cells also play an important role in the pathogenesis of AMD.