Researchers found that an epidemic strain of Streptococcus pneumoniae can damage mucins on mucus membranes, allowing the bacteria to enter and infect cells. The study identified an enzyme, ZmpC, as the culprit behind this process. This discovery may lead to new ways of diagnosing and treating bacterial infections.
Researchers at Schepens Eye Research Institute successfully regenerate large areas of damaged retinas and improve visual function using IPS cells derived from skin. The study holds promise for future treatments and cures for diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa.
A recent study by Schepens Eye Research Institute found that a bioptic telescope on one lens of glasses used for low vision driving may not prevent the wider view of the road with the second eye. The study, published in May 2011 Archives of Ophthalmology, suggests that individuals wearing such telescopes can detect targets in the area ...
Scientists have found that free radicals contribute to the damage in patients with Fuchs Endothelial Corneal Dystrophy (FECD), a hereditary disease impacting nearly four percent of the population over age 60. The discovery holds promise for early and preventative treatments, such as a diet rich in leafy green vegetables and multivitamins.
A study found that individuals with hemianopia, a condition where one half of the visual field is blinded, struggle to detect pedestrians on their blind side while driving. This suggests that drivers with hemianopia should be tested individually to determine their fitness to drive.
Scientists found that a lack of diffusible VEGF causes retinal defects like geographic atrophy, which may impact the use of anti-VEGF drugs for wet macular degeneration. The study increases understanding of AMD's causes and offers potential new therapies.
Scientists at Schepens Eye Research Institute found that TGF-β helps maintain the health of blood vessels in the retina. The study's results suggest that blocking TGF-β can cause retinal dysfunction and lead to diseases like diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.
A recent study published in PLoS ONE suggests that anti-VEGF drugs used to treat macular degeneration could cause the death of photoreceptors and Muller glia cells in adult mice. The research highlights the need for caution when using these drugs, as their effects on the retina may be more complex than previously thought.
The new telescope glasses offer a wide-field telescope made of straight and curved mirrors built completely within the spectacle lens, reducing the appearance of the device. This design enables the wearer to simultaneously view the magnified field above the unmagnified view of the uninterrupted horizontal field.
Scientists at Schepens Eye Research Institute have identified specific molecules that awaken dormant brain stem cells, which can transform into neurons and repair damaged brain tissue. The findings suggest that tapping the brain's regenerative potential may be a promising approach for treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Patients with hemianopia benefit from prism glasses that expand their visual field, improving obstacle avoidance and daily mobility. A new study has shown significant benefits for patients wearing these glasses, with 47% reporting them as 'very helpful' after 12 months.
Researchers at Schepens Eye Research Institute have identified a chemical compound that can awaken dormant Müller cells in the eye, transforming them into progenitor cells capable of generating new retinal cells. This breakthrough discovery offers new potential for treating diseases such as macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa.
Researchers at Schepens Eye Research Institute found that blocking VEGF can damage the cell lining preventing fluid from leaking into the brain. This may contribute to Avastin's neurological side effects in humans.
A new technique developed by Dr. Eli Peli's team allows people with low vision to improve their ability to see and enjoy television with enhanced image contrast. The method, which can be easily incorporated into digital TVs and internet video, enables visually-impaired individuals to select the desired level of enhancement.
Scientists have discovered a simple method for detecting vision loss in patients with retinal disease, utilizing the induced twinkle after-effect. This technique, already proven effective in 75% of cases, allows patients to identify visual defects at home before seeking medical attention.
A study by Schepens Eye Research Institute found that an educational video increased patients' knowledge about macular degeneration and adaptive devices, but had no effect on their emotional response or behavior. The video did not motivate patients to make changes to improve their quality of life.
Researchers have developed a device that combines a tiny camera, computer, and transparent display on glasses to improve the visual abilities of people with tunnel vision. The study shows significant improvements in object detection and reduced search time for patients.
Researchers identify VEGFR-3 as a key factor in preventing blood vessel growth in the cornea. The protein acts as a sink to neutralize growth factors, maintaining a blood-vessel-free cornea essential for clear vision. This discovery holds promise for treating eye disease and cancer.
Schepens scientists identify the intracellular switch that regulates angiogenesis, a process that can be both beneficial and detrimental to the body. The discovery may lead to more targeted drugs for diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration.
A study found that visually impaired individuals prefer TV content enhanced to their individual contrast settings, improving image visibility. The device aims to simplify design and enhance the viewing experience for both impaired and sighted viewers alike.
Research suggests that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish and walnuts, may help prevent dry eye syndrome. Women who consumed at least five servings of tuna per week had a 68% reduced risk of the condition compared to those with lower intakes.
Scientists discover a new connection between macrophages and lymph vessels in the eyes, which could lead to new therapies for eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy. The study also suggests that this link may be universal and involved in spreading cancer.
Researchers discovered a protein in the eye that prevents the immune system from responding to foreign invaders, protecting delicate tissue. The F4/80 molecule plays a crucial role in 'immune privilege,' preventing inflammation and immune activation in privileged sites.
Researchers have successfully regenerated the optic nerve in mice using a combination of techniques that prevent the formation of scar tissue. The study, led by Dr. Chen, shows promise for treating eye injuries and potentially improving outcomes for patients with glaucoma and spinal cord damage.
Enterococcus faecalis uses a Sonar-like system to detect human blood cells and produce a toxin in response, providing a potential mechanism for developing new antibiotic treatments. This discovery could also be adapted to help the aging population cope with vision loss.
Researchers have found that stem cells can preserve vision in mice with damaged retinas, holding hope for treatments of macular degeneration and other retinal diseases. The transplanted cells were found to migrate to the damaged area and regain or retain function in cone cells.
The Schepens Eye Research Institute will combine forces with experts from other biomedical and technological fields to develop a center for curing eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. The three-year grant will fund the planning and piloting phase of an interdisciplinary research center.
A new study by the Schepens Eye Research Institute reveals a previously unknown connection that stimulates immune response in the eye and other parts of the body. By blocking VEGFR-3 growth factor, researchers can arrest the rejection process, leading to improved survival rates for corneal transplant patients.
A study published in the American Journal of Ophthalmology found that nearly 3.2 million women aged 50 and older in the US suffer from debilitating dry eye syndrome, which can lead to scarring, ulceration, and loss of vision. The disease is more common in women than men, with Hispanic and Asian women experiencing more severe symptoms.
Researchers have discovered that brain stem cells can be transplanted without being rejected by the immune system, thanks to their unique properties. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for eye diseases such as blindness.
Researchers found that model mice with pigment dispersion glaucoma had abnormal immune responses in their eyes, which preceded disease onset. The study suggests that loss of immune privilege may trigger the development of glaucoma.
Schepens Eye Research Institute scientists have discovered a new drug that can trap abnormal growth factors in the cornea, potentially improving corneal transplants. Additionally, a gene therapy approach has shown promise in preventing and treating autoimmune diseases like uveitis by inducing a protein called a-MSH.
Researchers have discovered a protein in the eye that can successfully treat an autoimmune disease by converting conventional T cells into regulatory T cells. The study found significant reduction in uveitis severity and prevention of disease onset in mice models.
Researchers have successfully transplanted neuronal stem cells into a diseased rat retina, which integrated into the eye and extended into the optic nerve. This breakthrough could lead to the development of a new therapy to restore vision in millions of people affected by retinal damage.
Researchers at Schepens Eye Research Institute have found that the HMG I-C gene causes tumors called lipomas in fat tissue, which can become malignant. The study suggests targeting this molecule could be useful for treating obesity and lipoma-related cancers.