Articles tagged with Eye Diseases
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 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 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 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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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.
Researchers have created a high-resolution molecular map of the choroid, supplying blood and oxygen to the outer retina, revealing patterns of protein abundance that may be critical in vision loss. The map helps explain why certain areas are more susceptible to disease and identifies potential treatment targets.
A new study published in PLOS Biology reveals that Schlemm's canal forms from blood vessels through a novel process called canalogenesis. This discovery sheds light on the complex functions of Schlemm's canal, which plays a critical role in maintaining ocular health and preventing diseases like glaucoma.
Researchers found that dietary iodine intake was inversely related to central foveal swelling in RP patients with CME. This finding suggests that an iodine supplement could help limit or reduce retinal swelling in these patients.
Researchers have discovered that acute glaucoma is an inflammatory disease caused by high eye pressure, leading to vision loss. The study found that a rapid increase in eye pressure triggers an immune response that damages retinal cells.
The LA BioMed project aims to develop integrated and comprehensive care models to help Centinela Valley residents manage their diabetes. The goal is to prevent long-term complications such as kidney failure, amputations, and blindness.
Columbia University researchers create a way to develop personalized gene therapies for patients with retinitis pigmentosa, a leading cause of vision loss. They use induced pluripotent stem cell technology to transform skin cells into retinal cells, which are then used as patient-specific models for disease study and preclinical testing.
Research shows higher education levels and more years spent in school are associated with a greater prevalence and severity of nearsightedness. Outdoor activity and exposure to daylight are linked to reduced risk of myopia, suggesting environmental factors may outweigh genetics in its development.
Wolfgang Baehr will receive the Nelson Trust Award and funding to continue researching retinal diseases that lead to blindness. The award supports his work on understanding phototransduction and retina diseases.
A new study published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that hyperthyroidism patients are more likely to take extended sick leave, particularly in the first year after diagnosis. People with eye complications from Graves' disease were the most likely to require extended sick leave.
Researchers found that omega-3 fatty acids can regulate choroidal angiogenesis and vascular leakage by modulating micro-environmental immune cell recruitment. This mechanism suggests a unique pathway for disease resolution and potential therapeutic applications in age-related macular degeneration.
UK researchers are developing new materials to create artificial corneas and contact lenses that can be manufactured in an environmentally friendly way. The project aims to reduce the financial impact of vision loss on individuals and the economy, with potential breakthroughs in treating age-related macular degeneration.
A study found that tobacco exposure and male sex are significant risk factors for developing ocular sarcoidosis, which affects 25-50% of patients with the disease. The risk is greater than 5-fold for those exposed to tobacco and more than 7-fold for males.
Researchers developed a novel compound, Sticky-trap, to treat retinopathy by selectively closing off abnormal blood vessels without affecting healthy ones. The treatment has shown promise in mice and may lead to a new class of pharmacological entities for various conditions.
A team of mathematicians and optometrists developed a mathematical model to better understand the inner workings of tear film distribution over the eye's surface. Their findings suggest that it takes a blink to redistribute tear film, which may aid in the development of better treatments for dry eye disease.
Researchers have developed gene therapies to prevent and treat blinding diseases, including choroideremia and retinitis pigmentosa. These treatments involve replacing missing genes in the cells at the back of the eye, resulting in improved vision for some patients.
A study from the University of Waterloo found a correlation between abnormal binocular vision, general health, and antidepressant use in older adults. Binocular vision disorders affect depth perception and may increase fall risk, affecting up to 38% of those over 80 years old.
Joslin Medalists with type 1 diabetes for 50+ years have higher levels of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) and circulating progenitor cells (CPCs), associated with lower cardiovascular and kidney disease. These findings suggest that measuring CPC levels may help identify people at risk for complications.
A study published in the journal Ophthalmology found that physically active individuals and occasional drinkers have a reduced risk of developing visual impairment. The research suggests that modifiable lifestyle behaviors may alter the odds of developing sight loss not correctable with glasses or contact lenses.
Research suggests that shortening the time from symptoms to diagnosis has no bearing on survival or disease stage for most children with unilateral retinoblastoma. However, a longer lag-time between symptom onset and diagnosis is associated with a more advanced stage and worse survival in bilateral cases.
Studies suggest that eye structure and function may reveal features of early-stage Alzheimer's disease, including changes in retinal pigment epithelial layer and choroidal layer thickness. Researchers hope to develop new diagnostic methods using the eye as a window to brain activity.
Complex NHS sight tests are leading to unnecessary referrals and resource waste due to clinically insignificant abnormalities. Opticians refer patients to medical practitioners if abnormalities are found, but many of these referrals result in false positives and anxiety for patients.