Background: Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) promotes the binding and transfer of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) lipoprotein particle components to cells. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD), characterized by drusen, containing lipids, is reportedly associated with a lower frequency of the ApoE 4 allele than are control subjects. Because of the functional association of LPL and ApoE, we sought to examine whether an LPL polymorphism affects AMD risk. The common LPL alteration Ser447Ter decreases triglyceride levels and risk of cardiovascular disease. Methods: We genotyped this LPL polymorphism in 140 unrelated Hong Kong Chinese AMD patients and 100 elderly normal controls using polymerase chain reaction followed by Mnl I restriction enzyme digestion. Results: There was no difference in frequency of the 447Ter allele between patients (11.4%) and controls (11.0%). Conclusions: Either LPL does not play a role in AMD, or its effect is not revealed by this polymorphism or in this ethnic group.