Articles tagged with Eye Diseases
A large study of Ebola survivors found that many reported complications such as vision and hearing problems, as well as joint pain, months after recovery. The study suggests that the virus may persist in certain bodily fluids and highlights the need for follow-up care in West Africa.
Researchers have identified 52 genetic variants associated with AMD, including associations between CFH and TIMP3 genes and the extracellular matrix. The study provides a framework for future studies of AMD biology and therapy development.
FAU researchers have found a way for cells to digest dead neighbors before they become toxic, which could lead to new therapies for eye diseases like cataracts. The discovery challenges the long-held belief that specialized immune cells are responsible for removing dead cells.
Researchers create device that stimulates lacrimal gland to increase tear production by nearly 57% in rabbit eyes. The next phase will evaluate the quality of tears produced, with clinical trials underway for FDA approval.
Researchers compared therapies for Neuromyelitis optica, a rare autoimmune disease of the central nervous system. Plasma exchange therapy proved more effective than steroids in treating the condition's relapsing symptoms.
Women with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder have a higher risk of miscarriage, particularly within three years before or after disease onset. Preeclampsia is also more common among women with the condition, especially those with multiple autoimmune disorders or previous miscarriages.
A clinical trial has found that ranibizumab (Lucentis) is highly effective in treating proliferative diabetic retinopathy, with patients showing improved central vision and reduced risk of surgery compared to laser therapy. The study also suggests that Lucentis may help prevent diabetic macular edema.
A clinical trial funded by the National Institutes of Health found that Lucentis is highly effective in treating proliferative diabetic retinopathy, improving vision by about half a line on an eye chart compared to laser therapy. The study also showed lower rates of complications such as vitrectomy and serious systemic adverse events.
A University of Arizona-led study found that patients taking levodopa, a treatment for Parkinson's disease, are less likely to develop macular degeneration. The study suggests l-dopa may delay or prevent the disease, potentially leading to new treatments and improved eye health.
Researchers discovered patients taking L-DOPA have significantly lower risk of developing AMD and later age, according to a study published in the American Journal of Medicine. The retrospective study found L-DOPA may delay or prevent AMD, offering new hope for millions of older Americans affected by this common cause of blindness.
A research team at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center has identified a small molecule that prevents the overgrowth of blood vessels in animal models of aged macular degeneration and retinopathy of prematurity. The new findings show that this molecule, named Vasotide, can be delivered in eye drops, offering a promising alternative to ...
A study funded by the NIH has shown that gene therapy can preserve vision in dogs with late-stage retinitis pigmentosa. The treatment halted disease-associated cell death and preserved photoreceptor structure, improving visual performance under dim light conditions. Further research is needed to assess its safety and potential toxicity...
A Penn study shows that gene therapy can cure canine X-linked retinitis pigmentosa, even when treatment is started at mid- or late-stage disease. The treatment successfully halted photoreceptor cell loss and maintained vision in dogs for over three years.
Disparities in retinoblastoma outcomes exist among children of different ethnicities and socioeconomic statuses, with Hispanic children having a higher percentage of extraocular disease and being more likely to undergo enucleation. Low socioeconomic status is associated with greater risks for advanced disease and poorer ocular outcomes.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics reveals disparities in outcomes for children with retinoblastoma, a rare eye tumor, suggesting unequal access to primary care. Hispanic children and those from disadvantaged areas were more likely to lose an eye due to late diagnosis.
New research highlights matricellular proteins as key targets for treating common ocular disorders. The special issue explores the function of these proteins and their role in inflammation and blood vessel formation in the eye.
Researchers found that birds' feeding preferences, rather than social position, are key factors in contracting and spreading a common eye disease. The study suggests targeting high-risk individuals to reduce disease transmission.
Researchers at Joslin Diabetes Center found that peripheral lesions in the retina correlate strongly with retinal non-perfusion, a condition caused by lost small blood vessels. This discovery may enable clinicians to estimate disease progression without invasive angiography.
Researchers propose that bacteria in the gut activate immune cells against proteins in the eye, leading to autoimmune uveitis. A study on mice found that eliminating gut bacteria delayed disease onset and severity, suggesting a potential therapeutic target for this condition.
Research suggests retinal changes can serve as measures of brain pathology in schizophrenia, predicting disease risk and progression. The findings may help guide future treatment adjustments.
A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology has found associations between lower blood manganese levels and higher blood mercury levels with a greater risk of glaucoma diagnosis. The research suggests that trace metals may play a role in the pathogenesis of glaucoma, and future investigations could explore potential neuroprotective effects.
Researchers found that repeated exposure to stimuli can lead to recurring mast cell degranulation and long-term pathological eye changes. Inhibiting this release with substances like disodium cromoglycate may offer new ways to treat serous retinal detachment.
A researcher at Georgia State University has received a grant to study an eye disease that causes vision loss and blindness in HIV-immunosuppressed patients. The goal is to understand the mechanisms of HCMV retinitis and find ways to prevent or treat the debilitating disease.
A new study demonstrates that gene therapy can give life-long protection to photoreceptor cells in a mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa. The preserved cells were able to drive visually-guided behaviour even in later stages of the condition and despite becoming less sensitive to light.
A novel disease gene SLC25A46 has been identified as a cause of neurodegenerative conditions, including optic atrophy and Charcot-Marie-Tooth Type 2. The study reveals that mutations in this gene disrupt mitochondrial dynamics, leading to improper localization and increased interconnectedness.
Researchers found that microglia infiltrate the retina and create a cup-like structure over photoreceptors, accelerating their death. Inhibiting phagocytosis or targeting microglial activation may help preserve vision in retinitis pigmentosa.
A three-year clinical trial results show that the Argus II device improves visual function and quality of life for people with retinitis pigmentosa by up to 89%. The study found no device failures after three years and no negative impact on patients.
Researchers have discovered a new gene mutation that causes achromatopsia, a rare eye disorder marked by color blindness and light sensitivity. The ATF6 gene mutation may lead to targeted treatments for this form of color blindness.
A study identified a previously unknown gene mutation underlying achromatopsia, an inherited eye disorder that causes severe color blindness and visual impairment. The ATF6 gene mutation damages proteins necessary for proper function of the cone photoreceptors, leading to significant vision loss.
Researchers have developed a new, non-invasive method to diagnose kidney disease using an optical probe and Raman spectroscopy. The technique allows for the detection of subtle molecular changes in kidney tissue, enabling accurate differentiation between healthy and diseased kidneys.
The development of a two-photon ophthalmoscope aims to enhance retina imaging and detect eye diseases earlier, with potential applications in other organs as well. The instrument's super-magnification capabilities could accelerate the discovery of new eye therapies.
A new class of treatments may be effective in preserving vision for people with diabetic macular edema (DME). Researchers found that high levels of plasma kallikrein and associated molecules contribute to DME, and targeting this pathway may lead to new therapies.
A study of 3,353 Chinese adults in Singapore found the prevalence of glaucoma to be 3.2%, with primary open-angle glaucoma affecting 1.7% and primary angle-closure glaucoma affecting 1.5%. The study also highlighted the need for increased public awareness of this potentially blinding condition.
Researchers found that neurons produce a chemical critical for blood vessel survival, which also supports photoreceptors. The study suggests a new way to understand and treat diseases like diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration.
Researchers discover that blocking Slit2 protein prevents pathological blood vessel development in the retina, leading to a potential new treatment for vasoproliferative ocular diseases. The study suggests that therapies targeting Slit2 and its receptors may be beneficial for patients resistant to conventional anti-VEGF therapies.
A new non-invasive OCT technology has been developed that can improve the clinical management of macular degeneration, diabetic eye disease and glaucoma, the leading causes of blindness in the United States. The technology allows for earlier diagnosis and treatment, enabling more timely intervention to prevent irreversible loss of vision.
A new study suggests that bicarbonate modifies the visual signal generated by rod and cone photoreceptors, leading to improved tracking of moving objects while slightly reducing sensitivity to light. The researchers hope to explore the potential of controlling bicarbonate levels in the eye to slow or prevent eye diseases.
Researchers at LSU Health New Orleans have identified a protein in the retina crucial for vision, which can be harnessed to prevent and slow down retinal degenerative diseases. The discovery offers new hope for treating blindness and visual impairments.
Susac syndrome is a rare autoimmune disease causing acute confusion, hearing problems, and eyesight issues. It is often misdiagnosed as multiple sclerosis or ADEM, but may be considered in young patients with unexplained acute onset of confusion and abnormal spinal fluid tests
Researchers identified structural features and cell types in the retina that may act as key factors in glaucoma progression. Within seven days of elevated eye pressure, some retinal ganglion cells underwent significant rearrangements, such as reductions in number and length of dendritic branches.
Researchers developed a new test using magnetic resonance imaging to measure the function of retinal blood vessels and light-detecting cells. This breakthrough enables doctors to detect eye problems earlier, including macular degeneration and after childhood injuries, and may slow disease progression.
Researchers discovered that calcium phosphate deposits, known as hydroxyapatite, are a key triggering factor for AMD. The study found these deposits form around HAP and cause damage by blocking nutrient flow and waste removal in the retina.
A new gene, hexokinase 1 (HK1), has been linked to retinitis pigmentosa, an incurable eye disorder affecting millions worldwide. The discovery brings the total number of genes associated with this disease to over 60 and offers potential targets for drug treatments and gene therapy.
A new study finds that chronic hypertension increases a person's susceptibility to glaucoma by damaging blood vessels in the eye. This damage compromises the eye's capacity to cope with changes in blood flow, making hypertension a risk factor for the potentially blinding eye disorder.
A study by the American Academy of Ophthalmology found that 7 out of 11 popular eye vitamins do not match scientific evidence, with some products containing lower doses of essential ingredients. The study highlights the importance of ophthalmologists educating patients on the proper use of nutritional supplements for AMD treatment.
The Genetic Eye Disease (GEDi) test, developed by Massachusetts Eye and Ear, is a comprehensive genetic test for inherited eye disorders. It includes all known genes associated with these conditions and has been shown to be 98% accurate in detecting genetic variants, outperforming whole exome sequencing.
Researchers at Mount Sinai aim to re-create patients' ocular stem cells to restore vision, eliminating the need for immunosuppressive drugs. The grant will support efforts to discover new stem cell therapies and develop biomaterials for engrafting patient-owned stem cells.
Researchers at University of Melbourne developed a new laser treatment that improves eye health in AMD patients by reducing disease signs and enhancing supporting cells. The nanosecond laser does not cause damage to the retina, raising hope for monocular treatment options.
Researchers have developed microneedles that can deliver drugs to specific areas within the eye, targeting two major diseases: glaucoma and corneal neovascularization. The treatment has shown promising results in reducing intraocular pressure and halting unwanted blood vessel growth.
A study of 4,379 participants found that having AMD in one eye increases the risk of developing AMD in the other eye, with more severe disease progressing faster. The researchers tracked AMD severity in both eyes over a 20-year period and found a strong correlation between the two eyes.
A study using a free peripheral vision assessment app on iPads screens approximately 200 patients in Nepal for glaucoma, showing promise for populations with limited access to traditional eye care. The results agree between 51-79% with the industry standard test and can be an effective initial screening tool for high-risk groups.
Researchers studying blind cave fish are uncovering insights into degenerative eye disease and sleep disturbance. The species' genome sequence reveals similarities with the human genome, suggesting potential avenues for understanding human diseases.
A large retrospective study found that nearly 60% of patients with both uveitis and multiple sclerosis (MS) are diagnosed with each condition within a five-year span. The study also revealed that MS is more likely to be diagnosed before or after uveitis, not simultaneously.
A new smartphone-based tool has been developed to monitor diabetic eye disease, offering comparable results to traditional equipment. The tool, called D-Eye, uses a small optical adapter that attaches magnetically to an iPhone and enables ophthalmologists to evaluate the severity of the disease.
Researchers at IRCM uncover the essential role of a protein called Numb in maintaining proper compartmentalization within photoreceptor cells, leading to vision loss and degenerative diseases like retinitis pigmentosa. The discovery could provide novel drug targets for preventing photoreceptor degeneration.
Ferrara's discovery of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) led to the development of ranibizumab, a monoclonal antibody drug treating wet macular degeneration and diabetic eye disease. This achievement has significantly improved vision for patients affected by these conditions.
Researchers found that statin use decreased the risk of diabetic neuropathy, retinopathy, and gangrene in individuals with diabetes. However, statin use did not affect the risk of kidney disease.
Researchers at Northwestern University identify a critical chemical signaling pathway for the healthy functioning of Schlemm's canal, a key factor in developing glaucoma. They are now developing an eye drop that activates regrowth of the clogged vessel to lower pressure and restore normal drainage.
A team of researchers has identified a new target for treatment of common eye diseases, including wet macular degeneration and diabetic macular edema. Activating a biochemical pathway that suppresses VEGF's effects may offer a safer alternative to current treatments.
A study of over 4,000 UK women found that dry eye disease affects nearly one-tenth of the population, with symptoms worsening with age. The condition is linked to various health issues, including pain syndromes, autoimmune diseases, and fertility problems.