Articles tagged with Eye Diseases
Research suggests that aging has a modest impact on sensory perception, particularly smell, taste, and touch. Most older adults can detect scents and flavors similar to those of younger individuals.
Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a new gold-DNA probe technique that offers high accuracy and speed in detecting genetic and pathogenic diseases. The method uses gold nanoparticles combined with oligonucleotides to detect specific genes linked to diseases, eliminating the need for radioactive materials.
Researchers have identified the TSC2 gene as the second gene responsible for tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a genetic disorder affecting 1 million people worldwide. The discovery of this gene brings hope for diagnostic testing, therapies, and improved understanding of autism and seizure disorders.
Researchers discovered a growth hormone antagonist that reduces eye disease by 33-44% in mice. The findings suggest the use of this antagonist or a drug inhibiting growth hormone release may help prevent retinal neovascularization and treat related eye diseases.
A study by Harvard Medical School reveals that growth hormone blocks the formation of new retinal blood vessels, which can cause blindness. The findings suggest new treatments may prevent blindness related to this condition.
A new laser technique called photodynamic therapy appears to prevent further vision loss in people with the wet form of age-related macular degeneration. The treatment uses a red laser light to activate a toxic form of oxygen that stops abnormal blood vessel growth, potentially confining scar tissue and preventing vision loss.
Researchers have discovered a key role for the TIGR protein in non-hereditary forms of glaucoma, which may lead to novel diagnostic tools and treatments. The study found that exposure to steroid drugs or oxidative stress increased TIGR protein production, contributing to elevated intraocular pressure.
Sarcoidosis is a mysterious disease affecting 30 people per 100,000 in the US, characterized by granulomas and inflammation. New research suggests shared environmental exposure may lead to the disease, which often affects young adults and has no cure.
A groundbreaking study has identified a gene responsible for primary congenital glaucoma, a condition affecting 1 in 2,000 to 1 in 10,000 births. The discovery holds promise for early diagnosis and treatment, potentially preventing blindness, with the potential to be applied to adult-onset primary open angle glaucoma.
Researchers have found that cidofovir, a new antiviral drug, can slow the progression of cytomegalovirus (CMV) retinitis, a common cause of vision loss and blindness in AIDS patients. The study showed that both low and high doses of the drug were effective, allowing for less frequent treatment compared to traditional options.
Researchers have created genetically modified nematodes with human genes linked to Alzheimer's disease, sparking the accumulation of abnormal protein deposits in their muscle cells. The study aims to speed up the search for drugs to treat the disease by identifying potential treatments using these unique 'dual-transgenic' worms.
New research suggests that Lewy bodies may entrap life-sustaining cellular organelles, leading to neuronal death in diseases such as Parkinson's and ALS. The study provides a potential strategy for developing treatments by targeting the formation or elimination of Lewy bodies.
Scientists have developed spectral karyotyping, a powerful new way to visualize human chromosomes in a full-color palette. This technique allows for easy examination of chromosome changes that could lead to disease, such as missing or extra pieces, and can be used to identify chromosomal abnormalities linked to disease progression.
Leptospirosis, a bacterial disease carried by rats, poses a significant risk to urban residents in the US. Studies have shown that up to 10% of infected individuals develop severe Weil's disease, which can be fatal.
Researchers identify a gene on chromosome 4 as a potential cause of Parkinson's disease, shedding light on the mysterious origins of this debilitating condition. The discovery may lead to genetic testing, early diagnosis, and treatment options for all forms of Parkinson's disease.
Two Duke University studies suggest that diabetics with severe coronary artery disease do equally well if they receive either angioplasty or coronary artery bypass surgery. The studies recommend considering factors other than diabetes when choosing a treatment.
Researchers at the University of Wisconsin Medical School have identified genes for two devastating genetic disorders affecting abnormal pigmentation, including Hermansky-Pudlak syndrome and Chediak-Higashi syndrome. The discoveries may pave the way for genetic testing to identify patients and carriers, as well as new areas of biology.
Scientists have developed a new vaccine that uses an anti-idiotype antibody to stimulate the immune system and prevent Chlamydia trachomatis infections, which affect 700 million people worldwide. The vaccine was effective in animal experiments and may be available for humans with further development.
Researchers at NIAID have determined the entire genetic sequence of molluscum contagiosum virus (MCV), which causes persistent and sometimes disfiguring skin lesions in HIV-infected individuals. The complete DNA sequence will enable testing of drugs against MCV genes and studying how the virus evades immune responses.
Scientists have developed a powerful new way to visualize the full set of human chromosomes using spectral karyotyping, which translates computer-gathered light waves into a full-color palette. This technique enables easy examination of chromosome changes that could lead to disease, such as missing or extra pieces.
Researchers have protected growing brain cells from atrophying by treating them with a protein called NT-4, which fosters brain cell growth. This discovery could offer new treatment options for diseases involving gain or loss of brain cell connections, such as mental retardation and neurodegenerative diseases.