Archive for the ‘Macular Degeneration’ Category
Mother Alert - Sun damage not only to skin, but eyes, experts warn.
09.01.2010
While the majority of people are aware of skin damage that can result from unprotected exposure to the sun, very few know about the harmful effects that ultraviolet light can have on the eye. Yet experts agree it is critical to protect the eyes from harmful ultraviolet radiation using hats and sunglasses.
In the short term, UV light can lead to inflammation of the cornea and/or the conjunctiva. While this inflammation usually subsides, long-term UV exposure can lead to cumulative eye damage that is reflected in a number of conditions.
For example, abnormal growth of the conjunctiva, known as pterygium, may develop causing partial blockage of vision by obstructing the cornea. It is also believed that cataract formation is correlated with UV exposure. More severe eye diseases may develop as well, such as cancer and retina damage in the form of macular degeneration. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to wear sunglasses that effectively protect the eyes from ultraviolet rays.
Consumers are advised to purchase glasses that absorb 99 to 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B radiation. Moreover, ultraviolet radiation is not limited to direct sunlight, as reflections from metal, snow, or other surfaces can also inflict eye damage. Sunglasses should be worn at all times in the presence of bright light. *
Brian Krawitz
Staff Writer
Possible step toward preventing Wet Macular Degeneration discovered.
08.24.2010
Angiogenesis, or the growth of new blood vessels, is a normal process that is vital for development and wound healing.
However, excessive expansion of blood vessels can lead to diseases such as wet age-related macular degeneration, cancer, and diabetes.
Researchers at Tufts University have recently discovered ways to prevent harmful forms of angiogenesis through the analysis of a critical biological pathway. Galectin-3 is a carbohydrate-binding protein that is known to promote angiogenesis in the body, but the mechanism behind this relationship was previously unknown. Led by Dr. Noorjahan Panjwani, research has shown that galectin-3 promotes angiogenesis by binding to carbohydrate portions of integrin proteins. Through the understanding of this pathway and using mice as subjects, Dr. Panjwani and her colleagues have ascertained methods to target galectin-3 and prevent harmful angiogenesis. By either applying a galectin-3 inhibitor or preventing this protein from binding to integrins, the researchers were able to successfully disrupt the biological pathway and reduce angiogenesis in mice.
Scientists are optimistic that these new results will be helpful for the future development of drug treatments that will reduce harmful angiogenesis in the human body.
Brian Krawitz
Staff Writer
Alternative to Using Viruses for Gene Therapy Breakthrough!
08.23.2010In a recent study conducted at Tufts University, researchers demonstrated that non-viral gene therapy can delay the onset of retinal degeneration of the eye and preserve vision. Small DNA carriers known as nanoparticles containing GDNF (Glial Cell Line-Derived Neutrophic Factor) were injected into the retinas of mice subjects and the responses were monitored. GDNF is a protein that protects the photoreceptor cells of the retina. Seven days after injection, the treated mice exhibited less retinal damage and better vision than the controls. However, the retinal protection provided by the treatment dwindled soon after, as no difference in vision between the two groups was present two weeks after treatment.
GDNF Protein expression
Previously, gene therapy has been carried out using viruses. Viruses are very efficient in delivering DNA to cells in vivo, but they can provoke immune responses that can lead to inflammation and other setbacks. Using nanopoarticles as part of non-viral gene therapy is a safer option that avoids these complications. The next step is to find ways to retain the retinal protection, as the ameliorative effects offered by the discussed treatment are currently short-lived.
Nevertheless, this study makes an important leap in finding ways to delay the onset of degenerative retinal diseases in humans, such as age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa.
Brian Krawitz
Staff Writer
Make sure you take the right Omega-3 fatty acids that benefit eye health?
08.04.2010People who consume fatty fish regularly tend to have lower rates of AMD than people who do not. A new study reported in the professional journal, Ophthalmology supports previously reported evidence that omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent the onset or slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Oily fish like salmon, mackerel and albacore tuna are rich in these omega-3 fatty acids.
Researchers studied data from 2,520 adults aged 65 to 84 who underwent eye exams and completed extensive dietary questionnaires. Those study participants who consumed at least one serving of fish a week were 60 percent less likely to have advanced AMD than those who ate less than one serving a week.
While researchers were unable to establish a definitive relationship between the participants’ reported intake of fish and the risk of AMD, they were able to link a higher intake of omega-3-rich fish and the risk of advanced AMD.
Currently, a new government clinical trial is evaluating whether adding fish oil and the antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin to prescribed supplements for vision will bring additional benefits to patients. VisiVite Premier Ocular Formula No. 2 contains Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Zinc, Copper and high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids.*
Andrea Schumann
Staff Writer
Implantable Eye Telescope Receives FDA Approval
07.26.2010The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the Implantable Miniature Telescope for treating patients with end-stage age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This visual prosthetic device is the first of its kind and will aid those patients with the most advanced form of AMD which is the leading cause of blindness in America’s senior citizens.
This revolutionary telescope implant is designed to improve the visual acuity of the patient. End-stage AMD causes the patient to suffer severe to profound central vision loss in both eyes. The Implantable Miniature Telescope reduces the impact of the blind spot caused by end-stage AMD.
Created by Dr. Isaac Lipshitz, the Implantable Miniature Telescope is smaller than a pea and is implanted in one eye. The telescope delivers enlarged central vision images over a large area of the retina to enhance central vision. Peripheral vision is provided by the non-operated eye.
The approval of this device adds a new treatment option for those suffering from the devastating effects of end-stage AMD.*
Andrea Schumann
Staff Writer
