 |
|
Method devised for diagnosis of ocular diseases
January 18, 2007GAIKER-IK4 Technological Centre's Area of Biotechnology, together with the Opthtalmological Surgery Clinical Institute of Bilbao (ICQO) are co-operating in a research project the aim of which is to develop a diagnostic system, based on immunochromatographic techniques, for the specific recognition of proteic markers for ocular pathologies in eye teardrop samples.
This system, carried out with a swab (similar to pregnancy testing), will initially detect specific markers for ocular pathologies such as conjunctivochalasis and keratoconus and will enable, with a sample of teardrop liquid, the diagnosis of the patient with these disorders.
The ease of use of the system and both its speed and simplicity (a positive testing sign in the form of a coloured band) enables the system to be employed on a daily basis in the clinic. The markers on which the design of this diagnostic system is based are being analysed throughout the research project and validated by means of their recognition by specific antibodies in samples from the tears of patients affected by these pathologies.
In the future, towards the end of 2008, those responsible for the project hope to develop a multiple system, capable of detecting the presence of other ocular pathologies, besides the two already established in the initial phase, and with the aim of launching the diagnostic tests on the market.
Pathologies studied
Keratoconus or conic cornea condition is a disorder of the human eye which rarely causes blindness but can considerably interfere with vision. This pathology distorts the usual rounded shape of the cornea and forms acone-shaped prominence. It occurs in one in every two thousand persons and generally it coincides with puberty. Keratoconus does not follow any known geographical cultural or social pattern.
Conjunctivochalasis is the relaxation of the bulbar conjunctive capable of creating conjunctive folds over the lower palpebral rim.
Progress of the research
This research project, started in 2004 and due to terminate next year, is based on a comparative study of proteome in samples of teardrops from patients suffering from keratoconus and conjunctivochalasis and, as a control, in samples of healthy patients.
Proteomics is the tool employed in this study to simultaneously analyse all the proteins involved in a pathology and contained in just one sample of teardrops. This set of proteins, known as "proteome", is what enables the determination of which proteins are affected in their expression in ocular pathology conditions, thus indicating to GAIKER-IK4 researchers which are the potential markers to employ as recognition targets within the diagnostic system being developed.
This approximation is important in as far as just one sample enables the analysis not only of one or two proteins, but of all the proteins contained in the teardrop and that are involved in the evolution of a specific ocular pathology, thus enabling finding various markers, suitable for use in developing multiples diagnosis systems. These new systems will have direct benefits on public health and in future can be linked with innovative technologies such as nano- and microtechnologies, capable of incorporating fragments of biomolecules.
Elhuyar Fundazioa
In the future, towards the end of 2008, those responsible for the project hope to develop a multiple system, capable of detecting the presence of other ocular pathologies, besides the two already established in the initial phase, and with the aim of launching the diagnostic tests on the market.
Pathologies studied
Keratoconus or conic cornea condition is a disorder of the human eye which rarely causes blindness but can considerably interfere with vision. This pathology distorts the usual rounded shape of the cornea and forms acone-shaped prominence. It occurs in one in every two thousand persons and generally it coincides with puberty. Keratoconus does not follow any known geographical cultural or social pattern.
Conjunctivochalasis is the relaxation of the bulbar conjunctive capable of creating conjunctive folds over the lower palpebral rim.
Progress of the research
This research project, started in 2004 and due to terminate next year, is based on a comparative study of proteome in samples of teardrops from patients suffering from keratoconus and conjunctivochalasis and, as a control, in samples of healthy patients.
Proteomics is the tool employed in this study to simultaneously analyse all the proteins involved in a pathology and contained in just one sample of teardrops. This set of proteins, known as "proteome", is what enables the determination of which proteins are affected in their expression in ocular pathology conditions, thus indicating to GAIKER-IK4 researchers which are the potential markers to employ as recognition targets within the diagnostic system being developed.
This approximation is important in as far as just one sample enables the analysis not only of one or two proteins, but of all the proteins contained in the teardrop and that are involved in the evolution of a specific ocular pathology, thus enabling finding various markers, suitable for use in developing multiples diagnosis systems. These new systems will have direct benefits on public health and in future can be linked with innovative technologies such as nano- and microtechnologies, capable of incorporating fragments of biomolecules.
Elhuyar Fundazioa
Science News and Science Current Events Tag Cloud
This tag cloud is a visual representation of term frequencies of random science news topics with common terms grouped together and emphasized by their display size.
Adiponectin Particle Physics Magnetic resonance imaging Gallstones Cervical Cancer Amyloid-beta Energy Drink Autoimmune Diseases Hot Flashes Tumor cell Pycnogenol Twins Chlamydia Groundwater Language Lithium Intestinal Bacteria Statin Therapy Earthquake Morphine Glacier Bees Genomes Ageing Technology
See More: Science News Tags
Conference report highlights new research into drug delivery to treat eye disease
Researchers are investigating microneedles, nanoparticles and polymer carriers as potential new techniques to combat the leading cause of visual impairment and blindness in the United States, according to a report from the Third Annual ARVO/Pfizer Ophthalmics Research Institute Conference.
Worldwide clinical trials for new technique for early detection of eye disease
A unique new non-invasive technique for high resolution optical imaging of the eye is receiving global acclaim. The technique, pioneered by the University of Kent, is funded by the Toronto-based company, Ophthalmic Technology Inc (OTI). The University's Applied Optics Group is currently working with university hospitals in New York (USA), Osaka (Japan), Asahikawa (Japan), Amsterdam (Netherlands) and Milan (Italy) to carry out preliminary clinical trials. By combining two high-resolution imaging technologies, the new technique provides doctors with 3-D images of the retina, macula and the optic nerve. Such high resolution images provide clinicians with capabilities for early diagnosis and tre
More Ocular Diseases Current Events and Ocular Diseases News Articles
 |
Ocular Differential Diagnosis, 7E and Ocular Syndromes and Systemic Diseases, 3E Package by Frederick Hampton Roy (Author) Univ. of Arkansas, Little Rock. Brandon/Hill Medical List selection (#392). Quick-reference provides comprehensive lists of causes for each symptom or finding. Features alphabetical listings, complete and condensed Rx/Dxs, practical diagnostic decision tables, and suggested readings. Outline format. Numerous tables and graphs. Previous edition: c1996. Softcover. |
 |
Ocular Angiogenesis: Diseases, Mechanisms, and Therapeutics by Humana Press Leading academic and pharmaceutical researchers and clinicians from many disciplines synthesize and summarize current clinical and basic knowledge concerning abnormal growth of blood vessels in the eye, the cause of major neovascular eye diseases. The authors also identify and assess the most promising approaches with potential for commercial exploitation and discuss the challenges encountered in developing therapeutics for ocular neovascular diseases. Highlights include illuminating chapters on gene therapy and novel drug delivery systems and excellent summaries of the newest therapeutic approaches. A companion CD contains color versions of important figures used in the book. |
 |
Garner and Klintworth's Pathobiology of Ocular Disease, Third Edition (Two-Volume Set) by Gordon K. Klintworth (Editor), Alec Garner (Editor) Moving from a standard clinical reference Garner and Klintworth's Third Edition of Pathobiology of Ocular Disease is now modeled to be both a scientific research tool and a quick reference option for the practicing ophthalmologist, ophthalmic pathologist, optometrist and vision scientist. With the addition of ten new chapters, this edition focuses its attention on the causes, and mechanisms, of ocular disease, and is on the forefront of the latest discoveries, research methods, and the current on-going research in ocular disease. |
 |
Ultimate E 60s by THN A breakthrough in vitamin E supplementation--Ultimate E is a superior mixed tocopherol formula that does NOT contain any added soy oil (many vitamin E softgels contain soy oil as a filler). Most clinical research on vitamin E (showing antioxidant protection, reduced incidence of cardiovascular disease, neurolgoical protection, and ocular support) has been conducted utilizing pure alpha tocopherol. However, gamma tocopherol is in the highest concentration in the diet, and some studies have found superior effects using mixed tocopherols supplementally. |
 |
Ocular Transporters in Ophthalmic Diseases and Drug Delivery by Humana Press This exceptionally important new work represents recent discoveries and advancements in the study of ocular transporters and their roles in ocular physiology, pathology, and drug delivery. Transporters are found on the membranes of cells and play a key role in transmitting signals between cells. In Ocular Transporters in Ophthalmic Diseases and Drug Delivery, a panel of distinguished authors discusses all the latest developments in the study of ocular transporters. Focusing on the molecular characteristics, localization, and substrate specificities in various compartments of the eye, this volume discusses how transporters regulate the clarity of the cornea and lens, the movements of fluids across the ciliary epithelium, and the transport of nutrients across the retinal pigment... |
 |
Ocular Surface Disease: Medical and Surgical Management by Mark J. Mannis (Editor), Edward J. Holland (Editor) Ocular Surface Diseases is the first definitive text on the medical and surgical management of ocular surface diseases, with a special emphasis on stem cell deficiency disorders. The editors are world-renowned corneal specialists who have recruited leaders in the field of ocular surface disease to contribute chapters. These chapters are formatted for consistency, heavily illustrated, and uniformly captioned for ease of use by the reader. The book's emphasis is on clear diagnostic and therapeutic classifications, and inclusiveness of differing techniques. For the practicing ophthalmologist, both corneal specialists in the academic setting and general ophthalmologists, this is the first authoritative text on state-of-the-art techniques in the management of ocular surface disorders. |
 |
Ocular Inflammatory Disease by Jack J. Kanski MD MS FRCS FRCOphth (Author), Carlos E Pavesio MD FRCOophth (Author), Stephen J. Tuft MA MChir MD FRCOphth (Author) Highly Commended in the British Medical Association Book Awards 2007 This is a succinct and practical guide that provides a clear overview of ocular inflammatory diseases. The text has been richly illustrated with clinical details and examples. A description of the diagnostic features, investigations, differential diagnosis and management of each condition is presented. The book is primarily intended for trainee ophthalmologists at all levels and should also be of interest to optometrists. Covers all inflammatory conditions of the anterior segment of the eye and intraocular inflammation Chronological descriptions of disease processes Virtually every condition is illustrated by a full color image Special emphasis on management of complications such as cataract,... |
 |
Quick Consult to Diagnosing and Treating Ocular Disease by Charles M. Roberts (Author) * Diagnose and treat common ocular disorders * Formatted for quick and easy access to information * Includes common ocular and systemic drugs * Provides both generic and trade names of drugs |
 |
Ocular Infection, Second Edition by Informa HealthCare Since the first edition that was published in 1998 we have seen manychanges in ophthalmology from advancements in laser surgery to new techniques in cataract surgery. With these new developing advancements symptoms, diagnosis, and treatments in ocular disease have also begun to change. Early diagnosis and management of ocular infection is essential to avoid the risk of blindness. An understanding of the related disease process and drug therapy is a key aid in achieving this. The updated Ocular Infection Second Edition covers the basic science of ocular infection, as well as its diagnosis and management of ocular disease, and the changes it is going through. This detailed source will examine varying aspects of ocular disease, and convey to the reader ยท concise documentation... |
 |
Ocular Angiogenesis: Diseases, Mechanisms, and Therapeutics (Ophthalmology Research) by Joyce Tombran-Tink (Editor), Colin J. Barnstable (Editor) Leading academic and pharmaceutical researchers and clinicians from many disciplines synthesize and summarize current clinical and basic knowledge concerning abnormal growth of blood vessels in the eye, the cause of major neovascular eye diseases. The authors also identify and assess the most promising approaches with potential for commercial exploitation and discuss the challenges encountered in developing therapeutics for ocular neovascular diseases. Highlights include illuminating chapters on gene therapy and novel drug delivery systems and excellent summaries of the newest therapeutic approaches. A companion CD contains color versions of important figures used in the book. |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |