Articles tagged with Eye Diseases
Clearside Biomedical aims to treat age-related macular degeneration and glaucoma with a new microinjection technology that targets the back of the eye. The technology developed by Georgia Tech and Emory University uses hollow microneedles to deliver therapeutics precisely to specific locations in the eye.
Researchers found that women are more vulnerable to exfoliation syndrome (ES) than men, and that living in the middle or southern tier of the US reduces the risk. The study also confirms established associations with age and family history, as well as new data on associations with gender, eye color, and ancestry.
A Northwestern University study identified a gene that prevents blood vessels from forming in the cornea, which is essential for vision. The researchers hope to use this discovery as a basis for gene therapy to treat multiple eye disorders that cause blindness.
Cytosine plays a pivotal role in the human genome, acting as an on/off switch for genes and facilitating the recognition of foreign invaders by the immune system. Its diverse functions make it a crucial element of genetic diversity.
A research group at Brown University has sequenced the entire transcriptome of the mouse neural retina, finding that disease genes are disproportionately highly expressed and have unique sequences. This study provides new insights into the genetic nature of neural diseases.
A study found that retinal microvascular changes are associated with disability in daily activities among older adults. The presence of two or more retinal signs was linked to a higher risk of disability, independent of vascular risk factors and carotid atherosclerosis.
A NASA-sponsored study found that prolonged space flights can cause a range of visual system changes in astronauts, including blurry vision and abnormalities in the eye tissues. The study's findings have implications for long-duration manned space voyages, such as a trip to Mars.
Researchers found that cataract surgery improved cognitive ability, mood, and sleep patterns in mild Alzheimer's disease patients. The study suggests that vision correction may boost quality of life for these patients and their families.
Collagen crosslinking treatment using riboflavin (vitamin B) has improved vision in nearly 70% of patients with keratoconus, according to a recent three-year clinical trial. The treatment addresses the underlying causes of the disease and provides a permanent solution.
A new analysis of recent eye health studies shows that more time spent outdoors is related to reduced rates of nearsightedness in children and adolescents. Exposure to natural light and looking at distant objects may be key factors.
A new study found that playing video games, along with standard amblyopia treatment, can achieve significant vision gains in many older children. Nearly 30% of participants showed significant improvements after one year, while about 60% experienced at least some improvement.
Researchers aim to double the time window for corneal transplants from one week to two weeks after donor death to increase donated cornea supply. The five-year study will compare outcomes of 1,330 corneal transplants to determine if second-week transplants are as effective and safe.
New research by University of Kentucky investigators found that short-interfering RNAs can induce retinal degeneration via TLR3 and IRF3. This discovery highlights the need for caution when designing or using siRNAs intended for eye treatment.
A young scientist has won a $10,000 award for her research on regenerating eyes using stem cells from hair follicles. Her study showed an 80% rate of differentiation in mouse eyes following a cell transplant, highlighting the promising therapeutic potential of these cells.
Researchers have discovered a potential new treatment for EKC, a highly infectious eye disease affecting millions annually in the US. A molecular wipe targeting viruses responsible for EKC could relieve symptoms, speed up healing and reduce transmission risk.
Researchers discovered that defective eye cells in a rare disease lead to photoreceptor cell failure, causing sight loss. The study provides a target for treatment and may help understand broader retinal degenerative diseases.
Researchers at the University of Southampton are developing a novel device to directly sequence single DNA strands, aiming to improve genome analysis. The new method could provide faster and cheaper DNA sequencing, eliminating complex biochemical processes.
The NIH Blueprint empowers researchers to develop new treatments for neurological disorders, such as vision loss, neurodegenerative disease, and depression. Seven research teams have received funding to explore promising strategies for creating faster and more effective antidepressants.
A University of Iowa research team discovered a new genetic cause of retinitis pigmentosa by analyzing DNA sequencing and induced pluripotent stem cells. The study identified a mutation in the MAK gene as the likely cause of the disease, which affects about 1 in 4,000 people in the US.
A new device called myVisionTrack has been developed to monitor degenerative eye diseases such as age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. The hand-held device allows patients to track changes in their vision over time with high accuracy, enabling timely treatment and preventing preventable vision loss.
A comprehensive review of 173,687 cases found maternal smoking causes a range of serious birth defects. Smoking during pregnancy also increases the risk of premature birth and related health problems.
Michigan State University researchers are reformulating a decades-old drug to combat two debilitating tropical diseases. The goal is to develop a safe and effective treatment for filarial diseases, which affect millions worldwide. With clinical trials expected to begin in about two years, the team hopes to bring hope to those affected ...
Researchers identify dozens of rare genetic variants in ion channel genes associated with epilepsy, as well as nearly identical variations in healthy individuals. The study suggests that a combination of altered channels can mask individual defects, leading to a complex interplay between gene variants and the development of epilepsy.
Researchers successfully imaged rod photoreceptors in the living human eye for the first time, revealing cellular structure with unprecedented detail. This breakthrough enables earlier diagnosis and treatment of degenerative eye disorders, potentially leading to more effective sight-saving interventions.
Researchers discovered that natural killer cells contribute to dry eye disease development by inducing inflammatory responses in ocular surface and lymph nodes. This breakthrough offers hope for new treatments targeting the cellular cause of the disease, improving quality of life for millions affected.
Researchers found that game-worn football faceshields are more susceptible to breaking than new ones, especially when subjected to lower forces of impact. The study recommends routine inspection and replacement of used faceshields to prevent potential eye injuries.
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.
Researchers created a new mouse model that can be used to study degenerative diseases, such as type I diabetes and Parkinson's disease. The Mos-iCsp3 mouse allows for targeted destruction of specific cell types, providing a valuable tool for developing therapies.
Recent research highlights exciting developments in ocular gene therapy, including potential treatments for age-related macular degeneration and retinal disease. Gene therapy strategies have shown promise in reducing cell death and slowing retinal degeneration.
BC scientists are part of an international team creating a vast resource bank for gene function research. The project aims to build tools to discover mutant genes' roles in human diseases, potentially leading to medical therapy advances.
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine developed a gene therapy approach that significantly reduces uncontrolled blood vessel growth and cell death typical of AMD, slowing its progression. The treatment uses CD59 to block the formation of 'membrane attack complex' in cell membranes.
Jason S. Meyer, assistant professor of biology at IUPUI, is honored by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) for his groundbreaking study on modeling early retinal development using human embryonic and induced pluripotent stem cells.
A phase 2 clinical trial demonstrates the benefit of a neurotrophic factor to treat geographic atrophy, a severe form of age-related macular degeneration. The therapy, which delivers ciliary neurotrophic factor using encapsulated cell therapy, slowed vision loss and stabilized vision in patients with high-dose treatment.
A global consensus report defines meibomian gland dysfunction as a chronic, diffuse abnormality affecting the tear film. The report proposes a universal classification system and diagnostic tests to aid clinicians in diagnosing and managing MGD-related disorders.
A study of Joslin Medalists reveals that some individuals with diabetes for decades exhibit remarkably few complications, pointing to the presence of protective molecular mechanisms. The researchers identified a link between advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and both disease progression and protection.
Researchers found a rare eye movement pattern more common in healthy Chinese individuals than in British participants, challenging the assumption that this pattern is only indicative of underlying neurological issues. This discovery could indicate subtle cultural or genetic influences on brain function, warranting further investigation.
A retrospective cohort study found that patients with retinal vein occlusion (RVO) had an almost two-fold higher incidence of stroke compared to age- and sex-matched controls. The study suggests that RVO may be associated with an increased risk of cerebrovascular accidents but not myocardial infarctions.
A recent study published in Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science found that a drop in temperature below 30 degrees Celsius can cause the meibum to become too thick and stiff, leading to dry eye suffering. This effect is exacerbated by wind, which accelerates the drop in temperature of the ocular surface and eyelids.
Researchers tracked corneal transplant success in young patients and found substantial improvement in vision for most children with keratoconus. The study revealed that infants had lower success rates due to related illnesses, while older children fared better.
Millimeter-scale computing systems are being developed for medical applications, such as an implantable eye pressure monitor that tracks glaucoma progress. A compact radio with integrated antenna enables wireless sensor networks, allowing for tracking of pollution and structural integrity.
Professor Alan Stitt has received a Royal Society Wolfson Research Merit Award to support his ground-breaking research on vascular stem cells and eye disease treatment at Queen's University. The award aims to retain top researchers in the UK and reflects the excellence of the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Science.
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.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine will study and develop new treatments for diseases of the retina, a leading cause of blindness. The $10.1 million grant aims to accelerate the development of effective therapies, particularly for age-related macular degeneration.
A new UCLA study warns that mandatory genetic screening of newborns for rare diseases is creating unexpected upheaval for families whose infants test positive but show no immediate signs of the diseases. The study found that parents are often left in limbo, waiting months for conclusive evidence and facing trauma as a result.
A new study by Iowa State University researchers demonstrates that replacing the enzyme for MPS I shortly after birth can prevent irreversible damage and clinical signs of brain, heart, and bone disease. The breakthrough opens the door to improved methods of enzyme delivery in human patients with similar genetic disorders.
Two studies published in the journal Ophthalmology suggest that omega-3 rich fish and seafood consumption may help prevent advanced age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in seniors. Additionally, a new test called pattern electroretinogram (PERGLA) shows promise for early detection of glaucoma by measuring retinal ganglion cell function.
Researchers at the NIH have identified a compound that prevents overproduction of thyroid hormone, potentially improving treatment for Graves' disease. The receptor antagonist has not yet been tested in animals or people and still needs to undergo safety testing before potential human trials.
A new scoring system for diagnosing Wilson's disease in pediatric patients has been developed, demonstrating 93% positive and 92% negative predictive values. The test's effectiveness was tested on children with mild liver disease and asymptomatic individuals, showing no significant improvement from the penicillamine challenge test.
The National Eye Institute has expanded its genetic and clinical research database by adding more than 72,000 lens and fundus photographs from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study (AREDS). These images are now accessible to scientists through NCBI's online database of Genotypes and Phenotypes, dbGaP.
The Ontario Genomics Institute is investing in ArcticDx's Macula Risk test, which detects genetic variations predicting AMD progression. The test may help target effective care to those who need it most and relieve uncertainty for others.
A recent study published in the British Journal of Ophthalmology found that anorexia nervosa can cause significant damage to the retina and optic nerve, leading to impaired vision. The condition was associated with thinner maculae and reduced dopamine activity, which may be related to the initial stages of progressive blindness.
Researchers have developed new presbyopia treatments, including corneal lens implants and inlays, which show promise in improving near vision without the need for glasses. These options offer advantages over traditional LASIK procedures, such as reversed effects and improved distance vision.
Researchers tested beta carotene's effects on retinitis pigmentosa, a cluster of hereditary disorders causing incurable blindness. One-third of patients showed improved visual function after taking the nutrient for 90 days, while two-thirds had no response.
Researchers found a link between low blood pressure at night and an increased risk of glaucoma in patients with migraine. Mobile devices like iPhones can also be used to evaluate ophthalmic images with high consistency, revolutionizing digital eye care.
Fenretinide shows promise in reducing risk of wet AMD and geographic atrophy growth in dry AMD patients. Long-term diabetics who survived over 50 years with type 1 diabetes appear to be protected against PDR, with protective mechanisms activated early in the disease.
A recent study found that newer treatments for age-related macular degeneration, including intravitreous bevacizumab and ranibizumab, do not significantly increase the risk of cardiovascular complications or death. The study analyzed data from 146,942 Medicare beneficiaries treated for AMD in 2005 or 2006.
The number of retinal procedures nearly doubled between 1997 and 2007, driven by new treatments for neovascular AMD. Vitrectomy, a surgical removal of the eye's gel, increased significantly, while injections of drugs into the eye also rose substantially.
A study published in the American Academy of Ophthalmology's journal found that photoscreening was effective in detecting amblyopia in Iowa children, with a success rate of over 95%. The method, which uses technology to record the pattern of light reflected through each pupil, showed promise as a cost-effective way to identify the cond...
Researchers identified ways to preserve motor neuron cells in ALS and enhance CD8+ T cell therapy for leukemia. Expanding immune suppressors via TNFRSF25 could prevent allergic lung inflammation in asthma. These findings may pave the way for new therapeutic approaches for these diseases.
Researchers found that patients taking oral antiviral medications had fewer recurrences of corneal disease and other eye-related manifestations. The study suggests that antiviral prophylaxis should be considered for patients with frequent recurrences, highlighting its potential to prevent vision loss.