Retinal degenerations are genetically heterogeneous and include a broad spectrum of phenotypes. Recent advances in biology and medicine have introduced new technologies to study the genetics of retinal degenerations and the mechanisms underlying their pathology. Knowledge and understanding of these conditions have led to the development of animal models, successful therapies, and novel tools to characterize these clinical conditions and provide better care to patients.

We invite investigators to contribute original research articles as well as review articles that will stimulate the continuing efforts to understand the molecular pathology underlying retinal degenerations, the development of strategies to treat these conditions, and the evaluation of outcomes. We are particularly interested in articles describing the new modalities for clinical characterization of retinal dystrophies and measuring outcomes from treatment trials; advances in molecular genetics and molecular diagnostics; new insights into retinal degenerations using animal models; current concepts in the treatment of retinal degeneration using neuroprotection, small molecules, SiRNA, stem cells, and viral and nonviral gene therapy strategies.

Potential topics include, but not limited to:

• Recent developments in inherited retinal degenerative disease research
• Advances in genetics of retinal dystrophies
• Latest technologies for clinical evaluation and measuring outcomes
• Role of inflammation in retinal degeneration
• Retinal disease mechanism using model systems
• Role of modifiers in retinal dystrophies
• Recent advances in ocular drug delivery

Before submission, authors should carefully read over the journal's Author Guidelines, which are located at http://www.hindawi.com/journals/jop/guidelines/. Prospective authors should submit an electronic copy of their complete manuscript through the journal Manuscript Tracking System at http://mts.hindawi.com/ according to the following timetable: