Articles tagged with Eye Diseases
A new study from the University of Gothenburg suggests that tracking a preterm infant's weekly weight gain can identify those at risk of developing eye disease ROP. The simple method could save money and allow for earlier detection, reducing the need for costly ophthalmological exams.
Four young researchers under 45 received the 2009 ARVO-AFER/Merck Innovative Ophthalmology Research Award for their groundbreaking research on glaucoma and back-of-the-eye diseases. The award recognizes outstanding investigative work that could lead to meaningful improvements in patients' lives.
Researchers have successfully interrupted the transmission of river blindness in Escuintla, Guatemala, one of the largest endemic areas in the Western Hemisphere. This achievement marks an important victory in the campaign to eliminate the devastating disease, with eight out of 13 endemic study areas having already ended transmission.
Dr. Roberta A. Pagon, a renowned medical geneticist, has received the March of Dimes/Colonel Harland Sanders Award for her groundbreaking work in developing the public database genetests.org, which helps doctors analyze genetic tests for making informed medical decisions.
Researchers at Florida State University have identified a mutated gene in zebrafish that determines the development of photoreceptors, which could provide new insight into inherited retinal diseases in humans. The study, published in PNAS, reveals the genetic switch responsible for cells developing as rods or cones.
A Queen's University study has expanded eye-movement tests to identify children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in community settings, with over 200 children tested across Ontario and Alberta. The breakthrough will add eye movement testing to standard clinical assessment protocols.
The number of Americans with diabetic retinopathy is projected to triple by 2050, while cataracts will increase by 235% and glaucoma among elderly Hispanic individuals will increase 12-fold. Ophthalmologists must collaborate with other clinicians to help patients control their diabetes before eye complications worsen.
The school has received a record-breaking $1 million grant, including three individual awards totaling up to $925,000. The grants will support research into age-related macular degeneration, rhodopsin structure and function, and the pathogenesis of cataract and diabetic retinopathy.
A genetic link has been identified between cats and humans for two forms of retinitis pigmentosa, a disease causing blindness. Researchers found that cats with specific mutations can be used to test the efficiency of gene therapy for both humans and animals.
Researchers have imaged the nearly invisible layer of retinal pigment epithelial cells in a living eye, which could help diagnose macular degeneration at an early stage. This breakthrough technique uses fluorescent chemicals produced by the cells to detect potential disease before symptoms appear.
Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) can be slowed down with a balanced diet high in micronutrients, vitamins and antioxidants. Increasing fruit and vegetable intake could add up to 20% extra time for AMD sufferers before degeneration sets in.
Researchers at Cardiff University are making discoveries about the eye using X-ray scattering techniques at Diamond Light Source, shedding light on keratoconus and its effects. The study aims to advance laser surgeries like LASIK and develop artificial corneas to improve the quality of life for those affected by serious eye diseases.
Researchers found little evidence that cataract surgery accelerates age-related macular degeneration (AMD) progression. The study also explored how people assess age and fatigue through gaze patterns, revealing the eye region as a key area of focus.
Researchers found that vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 are key players in the development of diabetic macular edema (DME), a serious complication of retinopathy. The study suggests that intravitreal injection of steroids like triamcinolone acetonide may be useful in treating DME.
Researchers found that statin use is linked to rare eye disorders in some patients, including double vision, drooping eyelids, and loss of eye range of motion. A new system, the ocular trauma score, helps predict visual recovery for soldiers with combat eye injuries.
Researchers developed a new technique called Topical Endoscopic Fundal Imaging (TEFI) to monitor ocular inflammation in mice. The study found that TEFI enhances the monitoring of clinical disease, allowing for rapid and non-invasive observation of changes in the retina.
Researchers are exploring new techniques to combat visual impairment and blindness by delivering drugs through the eye. Alternative methods such as microneedles, nanoparticles and polymer carriers are being investigated to improve drug delivery and reduce side effects.
A clinical study presented at the AAO-SOE Joint Meeting shows that anti-VEGF therapy can effectively treat retinopathy of prematurity in premature infants, resolving abnormal blood vessels and promoting normal retinal vessel growth. The treatment has been found to be rapid, effective, and simpler than existing laser treatments.
Researchers at Mayo Clinic have identified associations between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and various eye diseases, including primary open-angle glaucoma, normal-tension glaucoma, flopsy eyelid syndrome, nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, and papilledema. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for patients with OSA.
A study found that interleukin-6, a biochemical marker in the blood, is significantly higher in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and correlates with oxidative stress. Additionally, collagen crosslinking treatment has shown promising results in stabilizing keratoconus patients' vision.
A population-based study of Type 1 diabetes patients found that better glycemic control reduces diabetic retinopathy progression. Additionally, a cohort study on age-related macular degeneration (AMD) discovered an association between poor night vision and increased risk of AMD progression.
A new laboratory-engineered mouse model shows slowed AMD progression with retinylamine treatment, providing biochemical evidence for a potential therapeutic intervention. Researchers aim to prevent rapid eye degeneration and slow disease advancement.
A large-scale study of preschool children's visual acuity found a commonly-used test to be inaccurate, while major studies on contact lens infections revealed that proper use and care are more important than new lens types. These findings will help eye specialists and wearers make better choices and improve practices.
A recent study by the American Academy of Ophthalmology found that 12% of ophthalmologists use electronic health records, with positive outcomes including increased productivity and cost savings. Researchers also identified factors predicting risk of progression from early to advanced age-related macular degeneration.
Researchers have discovered a genetic mutation that offers protection against age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in adults over 50. The study identifies a functional link between toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3) and geographic atrophy, a type of dry AMD.
A protein complex regulating primary cilia formation has been identified by NYU researchers. The complex involves three proteins: CEP290, CP110, and Rab8a, which work together to promote cilia formation on mature cells. This discovery may lead to new drug targets for diseases such as polycystic kidney disease, retinal degeneration, and...
Regeneron's ARCALYST (rilonacept) has been shown to effectively manage symptoms of Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndromes (CAPS), a rare inherited disease. The treatment demonstrated an 84% improvement in overall symptom scores and high patient response rates.
A study found that Americans with health insurance are equally likely to access eye care as Canadians, while those without insurance visit less often. Individuals with higher incomes and optional vision insurance tend to use eye care services more frequently.
A novel mutation in the nephronophthisis 4 (NPHP4) gene has been identified as a potential cause of cone-rod dystrophy in standard wire-haired dachshunds. This discovery raises hopes for developing treatments for humans with similar eye disorders.
Hispanic patients with diabetes are less likely to receive eye exams and are often unaware of the ocular complications of diabetes. The study found that nearly half of those with diabetes for more than a year had never had a dilated eye exam.
A new vision screening device can detect metabolic stress in the retina, potentially identifying diabetes early. The instrument measures flavoprotein autofluorescence (FA) activity to detect abnormal metabolism and tissue damage.
Patients with diabetes who take rosiglitazone may be less likely to develop proliferative diabetic retinopathy or experience visual acuity loss. The medication delays the formation of new blood vessels and preserves vision.
Trachoma causes blindness in 84 million people worldwide, but progress has been made since 1995 with a decline from 15% to 4% of global blindness. The SAFE strategy's success is attributed to improved socioeconomic conditions and widespread implementation.
A new study found strong evidence for a genetic marker on chromosome 5 linked to nearsightedness, which explains 80% of axial length variations. The research also highlights the importance of using vitamins and minerals correctly to prevent AMD vision loss in patients.
Researchers found that HIV protease inhibitors can decrease photoreceptor apoptosis in mouse models of retinal detachment. The study suggests that these drugs may prevent vision loss after retinal detachment by inhibiting mitochondrial apoptosis.
A new small molecule inhibitor of Src kinases was found to eliminate VEGF-induced fluid accumulation in the retina of mice and rabbits. The approach, which involved topical application or intravenous injection, showed promise for reducing vision loss due to VEGF-mediated blood vessel permeability.
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.
A study published in Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences identifies the erythropoietin (EPO) gene as a contributor to increased risk of severe diabetic eye and kidney diseases. The research highlights the importance of considering blunting EPO's effects in future therapeutic strategies, such as anti-VEGF therapy.
Two studies shed new light on eye health issues: the role of antioxidant supplements in preventing cataract development and their relationship to mortality. Glaucoma research also explores the link between cerebrospinal fluid pressure and optic nerve damage, revealing a potential contributor to glaucoma's progression.
Researchers have successfully used gene therapy to restore vision in three young adults with a rare form of congenital blindness. The study showed significant improvements in visual acuity and sensitivity to light, setting the stage for further studies.
Researchers found that the eye uses a distinct mechanism to reset the biological clock through light detection, separate from sight. This discovery could lead to easier tests to diagnose issues with light detection, potentially helping SAD and insomnia patients.
A collaborative effort by Boston University researchers has discovered the TFAP2A gene is linked to Branchio-Oculo-Facial syndrome (BOFS), a disorder marked by clefting, skin anomalies, and eye abnormalities. The study's findings may lead to more precise diagnostic testing and suggest new research directions.
Researchers have discovered a new vector, AAV5, that can carry large genes linked to inherited blindness, paving the way for potential gene therapy treatments. This breakthrough enables the delivery of corrected faulty genes into cells where they are required.
Research found that postmenopausal hormone users had a 48% lower risk of neovascular AMD, but unexpectedly higher risk of early AMD. Women who gave birth had a 26% lower risk of early AMD.
Studies among Ophthalmology's April 2008 issue highlight the potential link between natural light exposure before birth and the development of myopia. Researchers also examine the suitability of older donor corneas for transplant surgery, finding that those from donors aged 66-75 have comparable quality to younger donors.
Researchers awarded $2.4 million NEI grant to study corneal infection (keratitis) caused by disease-causing fungi on contact lenses and in the environment. The team will focus on Fusarium solani, a fungus that causes eye infections in warm, humid areas.
The latest advances in genetics and genomics hold great potential for improving prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of diseases. Recent research has shed light on the genetic causes of conditions such as vitiligo, autoinflammatory diseases, and multiple sclerosis.
Researchers found a blood vessel protein, Robo4, that reverses or prevents damage from two devastating eye diseases. The study's discovery could lead to new drugs to treat and prevent age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
A study published in Archives of Ophthalmology found that black patients with diagnosed and treated glaucoma have a higher risk of cardiovascular death. The research suggests that this increased risk may be due to the use of certain medications used to treat glaucoma.
Researchers from the US and China have confirmed the effectiveness of a simple treatment for amblyopia in laboratory and clinical trials. The treatment, which involves training on a visual task, has shown promising results in improving vision and challenging traditional theories about critical periods.
Researchers at Michigan Medicine created a device that measures metabolic stress, detecting eye disease before symptoms appear. The instrument provides accurate results in detecting vision loss and characterizing disease progression.
Researchers at Sainte-Justine Hospital and Université de Montréal have identified the CD36 receptor as the key cause of dry AMD. This discovery brings hope for new therapies to treat the blinding eye disease, which affects 30 million people over 50 worldwide.
Researchers developed an optical technique using 'frequency combs' to detect biomarkers for diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. The method simultaneously identifies tiny amounts of molecules in the breath with high precision.
Researchers have identified a key role for a glaucoma gene, sFRP1, in the development of the disease, which causes high pressure in the eye. Over-expression of this gene disrupts the WNT-signaling pathway, leading to elevated intraocular pressure and vision loss.
A study analyzed eyes of 2520 individuals, finding larger drusen and abnormal blood vessel growth more common in whites. Whites were also more likely to develop advanced AMD and geographic atrophy, with black individuals showing potential protection against AMD.
Researchers found that topical application of alpha-linolenic acid significantly decreased clinical signs of dry eye syndrome in animal models. The study suggests a potential new treatment approach for this common condition, which affects millions of people worldwide.
The department has received grants totaling over $1.6 million in the past 11 years, with a focus on identifying causes and treatments for blinding diseases such as corneal cataracts and macular degeneration. The grant will support research into diabetic retinopathy, ocular inflammation, and genetic eye diseases.
A long-term study found that smokers have an increased risk of developing early age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and experience greater progression of the disease. Smokers developed AMD at a younger age than non-smokers, and smoking was associated with cumulative progression of AMD over 15 years.
Researchers discovered that experimental drug endostatin may significantly reduce or eliminate abnormal blood vessel growth, a hallmark of advanced AMD. This finding gives hope to individuals at high risk for the disease, which affects central vision and can lead to total blindness.
A large USC study of over 6,000 Los Angeles-area children found that older children are more likely to develop vision disorders like strabismus and amblyopia. The study highlights the need for early screening and intervention programs to prevent lifelong visual impairments.