A new study finds that the molecule apolipoprotein M, or ApoM—known for its protective and anti-inflammatory qualities—could help clear away vision-damaging cholesterol deposits as they accumulate in the retina. Not only could an increased dose of ApoM in the bloodstream help ward off AMD, the molecule could be useful in treating certain heart ailments as well. Known as apolipoprotein M, or ApoM, this molecule is a lipocalin (an extracellular protein capable of transporting hydrophobic molecules) that binds with the bioactive lipid sphingosine-1-phosphate, or S1p. The new study found that when this protein was increased in the bloodstream, it helped clear away the cholesterol-rich deposits in the eye that lead to AMD. Amazingly, the researchers also found that ApoM could also play a pivotal role in treating certain heart diseases.