Author Interviews, Genetic Research, Lancet, Ophthalmology / 26.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Professor Michel Michaelides BSc MB BS MD(Res) FRCOphth FACS Professor of Ophthalmology and Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon UCL Institute of Ophthalmology and Moorfields Eye Hospital     MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
  • Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA) is a rare inherited retinal disease (IRD) that causes the degeneration of the cone and rod cells in the retina. It is characterized by severe vision loss at birth/early infancy and is one of the commonest causes of legal blindness in childhood. There is a wide range of severity at birth/early infancy, ranging from light perception to useful central vision; with variable rate of progression over time, LCA is estimated to occur in about 1 in 33,000 people. There are more than 30 genes that cause LCA.
  • LCA associated with genetic deficiency of AIPL1 is one of the most severe forms of LCA – resulting in profound visual loss from birth (often light perception only) and rapidly progressive retinal degeneration.
  • The study sought to evaluate whether early intervention by gene supplementation therapy in children with LCA associated with AIPL1 was safe and could improve outcomes.
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Infections, Ophthalmology / 15.02.2025

Eye health is an essential part of our overall well-being, yet many of us often overlook the delicate balance required to keep our eyes clear of infections and irritations. Styes and other eye infections can be both uncomfortable and disruptive, affecting our daily lives.  In this article, we’ll explore what styes are, the range of eye infections that can occur, and provide actionable advice on treatment and prevention strategies. With the right knowledge and habits, you can keep your eyes healthy and reduce the likelihood of these common issues.

Understanding Styes

Styes are one of the most frequent eye conditions encountered by people of all ages. These painful, red bumps on the eyelid are typically caused by a bacterial infection in the oil glands or hair follicles of the eyelid.

What is a Stye?

A stye, or hordeolum, often appears as a swollen, pus-filled bump near the edge of the eyelid. They are usually localized and can cause significant discomfort, especially if the affected area is touched or rubbed frequently. Although styes generally resolve on their own, their presence can be a signal that the eye’s natural defense mechanisms are under stress. (more…)
Author Interviews, Ophthalmology, Technology / 16.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Prof Alfonso Savastano Ospedale Generale Regionale “F. Miulli” - Acquaviva delle Fonti (BA) and Libera Università Mediterranea Degennaro (L.U.M.)- Casamassima (BA)  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The SING IMT® (Smaller-Incision New-Generation Implantable Miniature Telescope) is a novel, intraocular device for people blinded in the central vision by late-stage, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of unpreventable blindness. It is approved for use in CE referenced countries and under investigation in the United States. Our study evaluated the intermediate-term visual and safety outcomes of the SING IMT in patients (n=35) 55 years and older at 6 months post-surgery and found that SING IMT implantation improved distance and near vision, with an expected impact on the corneal endothelium cell density and manageable safety outcomes. Key findings include:
  • At six months post-surgery, at least 1-, 2-, and 3-line gains in best-corrected distance (BCDVA) were achieved in 97.1 percent, 68.6 percent and 51.4 percent of operated eyes, respectively
  • The percentage of patients able to read at near distance increased from 28.6 percent at baseline to 97.1 percent at six months.
  • The study also found that corrected near visual acuity was also significantly improved by ⁓3 lines at 6 months post-surgery.
  • The mean (SD) change from baseline in corneal endothelial cell density (ECD) at six months in operated eyes was -280.7 (315.9) cells/mm2 (-11.4 %). This is a result similar to that seen with standard cataract surgery.
  • The most frequent adverse event was corneal edema, and all cases were resolved with topical medications.
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Ophthalmology / 11.12.2024

Cataract surgery is a big decision, isn’t it? If you or a loved one has been told you need cataract surgery, you might feel a little overwhelmed by the choices out there. Traditional methods have been used for decades, but laser cataract surgery has quickly emerged as a cutting-edge option with some impressive benefits.

What Makes Laser Cataract Surgery Different?

First, let’s talk about how laser cataract surgery works. It’s not wildly different from traditional cataract surgery in terms of the end goal—to replace a cloudy lens with a clear, artificial one. But the tools and precision used when having laser cataract surgery take things up a notch. Instead of a surgeon manually making incisions with a blade, lasers create the incisions and soften the cataract, making it easier to remove. This level of precision ensures that the cuts are cleaner, more accurate, and tailored to your eye’s unique shape. It’s like upgrading from a manual toolkit to a high-tech laser-guided system. (more…)
Ophthalmology / 02.12.2024

Living in the Sunshine State presents unique challenges for those dealing with cataracts, a common age-related eye condition that clouds natural vision. However, Florida residents are fortunate to have access to exceptional eye care, with experienced specialists like your local cataract doctor in Fort Myers and throughout the state ready to help restore clear vision. As Florida's population continues to age, understanding the benefits of cataract surgery becomes increasingly important for maintaining quality of life and independence.

Modern Cataract Surgery Technology in Florida

Florida stands at the forefront of ophthalmological innovation, offering patients access to cutting-edge surgical facilities and equipment. State-of-the-art surgical centers across Florida provide advanced options such as laser-assisted cataract surgery and premium intraocular lenses (IOLs). These modern technologies allow surgeons to perform procedures with unprecedented precision, offering patients customized solutions for their unique vision needs. The latest IOL options can even correct existing vision problems like astigmatism or presbyopia, potentially reducing or eliminating the need for glasses after surgery. (more…)
Ophthalmology / 25.11.2024

 
  • Eye care is being revolutionized by advanced tools and techniques, improving diagnosis and treatment options.
  • Cutting-edge innovations like AI-driven diagnostics, wearable devices, and minimally invasive procedures are transforming outcomes.
  • Emerging techniques, such as regenerative therapies and precision medicine, are addressing previously untreatable conditions.
  • The future of eye care includes telemedicine and smart technologies, making treatments more accessible and tailored to individual needs.
future-eye-care   Eye care is undergoing a revolution. As technology evolves, so do the ways we diagnose and treat vision problems. For patients and professionals alike, this means a brighter future—literally and figuratively. From innovative devices to cutting-edge surgical methods, advancements in this field are transforming outcomes and making treatments more accessible. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the challenges faced in eye care today, the breakthroughs addressing them, and the exciting tools and techniques shaping the future. Whether you’re curious about the tech behind these advancements or what they mean for your eye health, you’re in the right place. (more…)
Ophthalmology / 31.10.2024

Many people dream of having perfect vision without needing glasses or contact lenses. Thanks to significant technological advancements, LASIK is now safer and more precise, making it a popular choice for those seeking clarity and comfort in their everyday lives. The transformation after LASIK extends beyond mere visual improvement. The newfound ability to enjoy daily activities without optical aids leads to enhanced quality of life, boosting confidence and reducing dependency on corrective lenses. An informed understanding of LASIK empowers individuals to make decisions that benefit their vision health, potentially altering life significantly and positively. Key Takeaways
  • LASIK is popular for those looking to improve vision and life quality without relying on glasses or contact lenses.
  • Advances in LASIK technology have made the procedure safer and more precise.
  • Understanding the benefits and process of LASIK can help individuals make informed decisions about their eye health.
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Glaucoma, Ophthalmology / 28.10.2024

  glaucoma-opthalmology-eyedoctor.jpg Glaucoma is often called the "sneak thief of sight," and that name fits. Many folks don't know they have it until it's too late. Spotting the earliest sign of glaucoma can help save your vision and get you the care you need. Let's explore four important symptoms to keep an eye out for and discuss why catching glaucoma early is so crucial for keeping your eyes healthy. Please note everyone should be screened for glaucoma as well as other eye diseases including macular degeneration.  Make a regularly scheduled visit to an opthamologist part of your health care routine. Four Key Symptoms Glaucoma is a group of eye conditions that can lead to vision loss and are often associated with increased pressure in the eye. Here are four key symptoms to look out for as earliest sign of glaucoma:
  1. Blurred or Cloudy Vision
One of the most alarming symptoms that could indicate the earliest sign of glaucoma is a subtle change in your vision. Many people notice their vision becoming blurry or cloudy. This problem can get worse as time goes on. It often happens in low-light situations or when moving from bright to dark places. Glaucoma can block fluid from draining out of your eye, causing pressure that makes your vision unclear. If you have trouble focusing, don't ignore these changes. It's important to see an eye doctor. (more…)
Ophthalmology / 17.10.2024

More than 150 million Americans wear corrective spectacles and lenses. This eyewear helps Americans compensate for refractive errors. The most common of them are nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. When do errors arise? They happen when an eye does not refract the light to concentrate on the retina. This occurs because of the cornea’s form. If you wear lenses or glasses, understanding LASIK vs SMILE surgery is for you. 

LASIK Eye Surgery

About

Laser Assisted In-Situ Keratomileusis is what stands behind LASIK. In the USA alone, this is the top sought-after surgical intervention. The procedure is 100% bladeless and involves a laser beam for cornea reshaping.    The procedure has been FDA-approved for 20 years. Since then, it has revolutionized the domain. There is more than one type of LASIK surgery. (more…)
Ophthalmology / 30.08.2024

Many people across the country struggle with impaired vision on a daily basis. When you are not able to see properly, it could lead to eye strain and headaches, poor performance at work or school, and a variety of other challenges. One of the best ways that you can improve your vision is by getting a good set of glasses. There are various factors that you should think about when you are looking for a new set of classes in the Omaha area. Comfort of Frames One of the most important things to think about when you are shopping for a new set of glasses is how comfortable they are. There are different sizes and shapes of glasses that are ideal for different people based on the shape of their face and head. It is important that you get a set of glasses that feel extremely comfortable as you will likely be wearing them for hours at a time. You should be able to try on any frame at a local optometrist to ensure you get a set that is right for you. Ease of Replacing Lenses It is also important that you find a pair of glasses that will allow you to change the lenses. In some situations, you can find that your vision will continue to decline over the years. After a few years, you might even want to get a new pair that matches your current needs.  When you have a set of glasses that allow for the replacement of the lenses, you can avoid costs that come with having to get a new set of frames. Instead, you can just swap in new lenses that will help to improve your vision. (more…)
Ophthalmology / 20.06.2024

In a country like the United Arab Emirates (UAE), with its glittering skyline and bustling streets, having poor eyesight can cause you to miss out on so much. Imagine not being able to fully appreciate the awe-inspiring architecture of the Burj Khalifa or the sparkling waters of the Palm Jumeirah. Picture struggling to navigate the vibrant souks and bustling malls, unable to soak in the rich culture and intricate details of the treasures on display. Poor eyesight might even rob you of the simple joys of watching the sun set over the desert horizon or enjoying dolphin encounters in the best marine-themed parks in the country. Having a clear vision opens up a world of endless possibilities in a city teeming with life and wonder. This guide will help ensure you never miss a moment of Emirati magic with seven simple tips for maintaining healthy eyesight.

1. Watch Your Diet

Good eyesight begins with what you eat. Omega-3 fatty acids, lutein, zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin E are some of the nutrients you need to maintain your eye health.
  • Incorporate foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and citrus fruits for vitamins A and C.
  • Enjoy almonds, spinach, and cold-water fish like salmon for vitamin E, lutein, and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Don’t forget zinc-rich foods like beans and lean meats.
A balanced diet supports healthy eyes and helps reduce your risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes, major contributors to vision loss. (more…)
Ophthalmology / 12.06.2024

Maintaining sound eye health requires knowledge of common eye disorders. Hyperopia (farsightedness) and myopia (nearsightedness) affect our ability to see close things. Another common problem is astigmatism, which results in blurry vision because of unevenly shaped corneas. The age-related disorder, presbyopia, affects one's capacity to focus on near objects. Older persons frequently get cataracts, which cloud the eye's lens, while glaucoma causes elevated eye pressure that may cause vision loss. For early identification and treatment, as well as to maintain overall eye health and vision, routine eye exams are crucial. Regular Eye Check-Ups Regular eye check-ups are among the most critical steps in maintaining optimal vision. These visits help detect potential eye problems early and ensure your eyes are healthy. Consulting with eye doctors in Newtown, PA, can provide personalized care and recommendations for your vision needs. Eye check-ups often include tests measuring visual acuity, depth perception, eye alignment, and movement. These tests are designed to detect abnormalities early, such as glaucoma, cataracts, and macular degeneration. Catching these conditions in their initial stages can be crucial for effective treatment and preventing long-term damage. For instance, detecting glaucoma early can allow for treatments that reduce intraocular pressure and prevent further optic nerve damage. (more…)
Ophthalmology, Surgical Research / 08.06.2024

Key Takeaways:
  • LASIK is a joint surgery that corrects vision. LASIK offers several advantages, including faster recovery and better vision.
  • Recent advancements in LASIK technology have made the procedure safer and more effective.
  • Understanding the risks and benefits of LASIK is essential for anyone considering the surgery.
An Introduction to LASIK Surgery eye-lasixAnother name for LASIK is Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, a popular vision correction surgery that has helped millions achieve more precise vision. It involves using advanced laser technology to modify the cornea to let light reach the eye and be correctly focused onto the retina. This reshaping process significantly improves vision for those with refractive defects, including astigmatism, farsightedness, and nearsightedness. If you've been considering options like LASIK in Utah, you're part of a growing group of individuals seeking a life-changing solution to their vision problems. Initially introduced in the 1980s, LASIK surgery has undergone numerous technological improvements, making it a safer and more reliable option for vision correction. It has improved the quality of life for millions and reduced the dependency on corrective eyewear, making daily activities more convenient. (more…)
Ophthalmology / 21.04.2024

eyesurgery-lasix-eye-eyelashes-face-woman-63320.webpLASIK is an excellent option for people who have to wear glasses or contacts and don't want to do that anymore. Before going in for a consultation, it's good to learn as much as possible about it. Here are some answers, including ones if you have questions about LASIK cost. What is LASIK? This is an outpatient surgery where the eye doctor will use a laser to reshape the corneal tissue of an eye through a flap that is also created by the laser. It's a safe procedure since the laser won't damage other tissue or other parts of the eye. Who is a Candidate for LASIK?  While there are a lot of people who can benefit from this, there are some who aren't eligible. They include people who are under 18, those who have had multiple changes in their eyeglasses prescription, people that have extreme cases of nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, and those who have severe dry eye. Your eye doctor will thoroughly examine your eyes and make that determination before moving ahead and scheduling the actual surgery. (more…)
Ophthalmology / 18.04.2024

Although LASIK has been around for decades, people still have to weigh the pros and cons before going ahead with the surgery. One prominent thing could dissuade people who are interested in it from getting it - the most important LASIK candidacy factors. Simply put, not everyone will be able to have the surgery. The reasons, as the link shows, include having too strong a case of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. eye-lasixPro: It's a Very Fast Surgery When you compare it to other surgeries involving things that play a large part of your senses, a 10-minute surgery is astonishing. You'll be surprised at how quickly things go, even when you're spending some of the time with your eyes pinned open. As a result, you'll feel relief that you're out of the operating room as soon as you are. Since your eyes will be open the entire time, too, you won't have to worry about that post-anesthesia nausea that some people have when they are put under. Con: There Are Some Possible Risks Yes, LASIK has been around for a long time, but that doesn't mean that it's completely perfect. Some people do have some side effects. Even if they didn't have dry eye before, some people can have it for roughly three months. Dry eye is when your eyes can't produce tears, which then leads to them feeling grainy. Other things include having hazy vision, nighttime glare (which can make driving at night dangerous. (more…)
Author Interviews, Brigham & Women's - Harvard, Diabetes, Ophthalmology / 16.06.2023

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Ali Hafezi-Moghadam, Ph.D., M.D Director, Molecular Biomarkers Nano-Imaging Laboratory (MBNI) Associate Professor of Radiology, Harvard Medical School Brigham and Women’s Hospital MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: “It is very easy to answer many fundamental biological questions” said Richard Feynman in his 1959 address, where he also offered his simple and ingenious solution: “you just look at the thing!”[1]. As a biologist, I am familiar with the challenges surrounding looking at things in the context of life. There is no single device or technology that lets me simply see the answers to my questions. How does diabetes harm the tissues in the body? When exactly does the pathology start and which molecules and cells are involved? Trying to answer these questions, I have spent the past two decades innovating new ways of quantifying expression of molecules in the living organism [2]. At the same time to study diabetes, we needed a realistic rodent model that mirrors the human disease. In collaboration with KC Hayes[3], we first introduced the Nile grass rat (NGR, Arvicanthis niloticus), a gerbil that recapitulates the main features of the human type 2 diabetes [4]. For visualization of early changes, the eye offers a unique site. Much of my lab’s work focused on the first effects of diabetes in the retina, the site of the neurons that perceive light in the back of the eye [5], [6], [7]. In recent studies, we focused on how diabetes affects the lens in the eye of our animals [8], [9]. Diabetes is a major risk factor for cataract formation, a condition during which the lens loses its original transparency to visible light. How diabetic cataracts are formed is not well understood. A popular and prevailing theory, termed “sugar cataracts”, has been around for over half a century. According to the sugar hypothesis of cataracts, the excess levels of the sugar molecule, glucose, in the lens are transformed through the polyol pathway into the sugar-alcohol sorbitol. The resulting osmotic dysbalance leads to swelling of the fiber cells and opacity of the lens. Even though the sugar hypothesis has never been proven, it was generally accepted and remained unchallenged for a very long time. That is where our latest experimental results became relevant. (more…)
Ophthalmology / 06.10.2022

A majority of adults have imperfect vision. Some of these adults were born with poor eyesight. Others developed it as they aged. Either way, most people opt for eyeglasses or contact lenses to correct their vision. Of course, glasses or contacts might not be the most convenient or affordable approach in the long-run for some people. The next best way to improve one’s vision is to opt for LASIK eye surgery. So who, then, would be a good candidate for this method of treatment, you may ask? Below, you’ll learn if LASIK might be a great next step for you. (more…)
Author Interviews, JAMA, Ophthalmology, USPSTF / 02.06.2022

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Katrina Donahue, M.D., M.P.H. Professor and vice chair of research Department of Family Medicine University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Dr. Donohue is a family physician and senior research fellow Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research Dr. Donahue joined the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force in January 2020. MedicalResearch.com:  What is the background for this study?  What are the main findings?  Response: Impaired vision and glaucoma are serious and common conditions facing millions of people nationwide that can affect a person’s independence and quality of life. These recommendations looked at how primary care clinicians can help people who have not noticed any problems with their vision. Unfortunately, there is not enough evidence available to make a recommendation for or against screening adults for glaucoma or older adults for impaired vision in the primary care setting. (more…)
Author Interviews, Ophthalmology, Technology / 01.04.2022

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Scott D. Barnes, MD Chief Medical Officer STAAR Surgical https://staar.com/MedicalResearch.com:  What is the background for the EVO procedure?  Would you briefly describe what is meant by myopia and how common it is? Response: EVO is a clinically-proven implantable lens that corrects common vision problems such as nearsightedness and nearsightedness with astigmatism. EVO can be the solution for people who want to get rid of their glasses or contact lenses. Myopia (or nearsightedness) is the most common ocular disorder worldwide and its incidence is increasing significantly. An estimated 30% of the world's population, or 2.6 billion people, have myopia and this number is projected to rise to 50% of the global population by the year 2050. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cancer Research, Ophthalmology / 08.02.2022

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Dr. Saundra Singh M.D., Ph.D. Founder & CEO/President Singh Biotechnology https://www.singhbiotechnology.com/       MedicalResearch.com: What is the mission of Singh Biotechnology?  
  • Our mission is to develop medicine and therapeutics that dramatically improve and save the lives of people worldwide suffering from diseases, including cancer.
MedicalResearch.com: What are the advantages of the Single Domain Antibody technology?
  • The average human antibody is 150 Kd in size and works on the outside of the cell. The advantage of the single domain nanobody is that it is significantly smaller, in fact, it is one-tenth the size (approximately 15 Kd) of the human antibody. A smaller nanobody is more useful therapeutically because, unlike many cancer drugs currently on the market, it can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, the blood-retina barrier, and the cell membrane. Moreover, our SBT-100 drug has been shown to be non-toxic in animal models.
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Author Interviews, Ophthalmology, PLoS / 20.01.2022

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Prof. Jugnoo S Rahi Professor of Ophthalmic Epidemiology and Honorary Consultant Ophthalmologist NIHR Senior Investigator Head, Vision and Eyes Group UCL HeadPopulation Policy and Practice Research and Teaching Department GOS ICH UCL Director, Ulverscroft Vision Research Group  GOS Institute of Child Health UCL / Great Ormond Street Hospital NHS Foundation Trust Institute of Ophthalmology UCL / NIHR Moorfields Biomedical Research Centre Chair, Academic Committee Chair, British Ophthalmological Surveillance Unit Executive Committee Royal College of Ophthalmologists  MedicalResearch.com:  What is the background for this study?    Response: We hypothesised that if changing environmental factors, in particular educational experience, are accounting for increasing frequency of myopia in the UK, a cohort effect would be discernible in changing associations with myopia, with different profiles for childhood and adult-onset forms. We investigated this using the UK Biobank Study, a unique large contemporary adult population sample whose members, born over a period of more than three decades, have undergone a detailed ophthalmic examination. This affords the opportunity to analyse ‘historical’ cohorts covering a period of important socio-demographic, economic, and educational change in the UK from which current and emerging trends may be identified and examined. Drawing on our previous proof-of-concept study, we investigated whether there were differences between childhood-onset versus adult-onset myopia in temporal trends in both frequency and severity and in associations with key environmental factors. (more…)
Alzheimer's - Dementia, Author Interviews, JAMA, Ophthalmology / 06.12.2021

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Cecilia S. Lee, MD, MS Associate Professor,Director, Clinical Research Department of Ophthalmology Harborview Medical Center University of Washington Seattle, WA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Cataract is a natural aging process of the eye and affects the majority of older adults who are at risk for dementia. Sensory loss, including vision and hearing, is of interest to the research community as a possible risk factor for dementia, and also as a potential point of intervention. Because cataract surgery improves visual function, we hypothesized that older people who undergo cataract surgery may have a decreased risk of developing Alzheimer disease and dementia. We used the longitudinal data from an ongoing, prospective, community based cohort, Adult Changes in Thought (ACT) study. The ACT study includes over 5000 participants to date who are dementia free at recruitment and followed until they develop Alzheimer disease or dementia. We had access to their extensive medical history including comprehensive ophthalmology visit data. We investigated whether cataract surgery was associated with a decreased risk of developing Alzheimer disease and dementia.  (more…)
Author Interviews, Coffee, Ophthalmology / 04.12.2021

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Kristine Dalton PhD FAAO, FBCLA School of Optometry & Vision Science University of Waterloo Waterloo, Canada MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Dynamic visual acuity refers to the ability to detect and perceive small details in objects that are moving relative to an observer.  Dynamic visual acuity is a complex visual function, that involves a number of different aspects of vision, including detecting the target, moving the eyes appropriately to observe the target, and processing the visual information from the target in the brain to interpret what we are seeing.   What makes dynamic visual acuity so interesting to study, is that as a visual function, it appears to play an important role in a number of real-world situations, including playing sports, driving, and piloting, and it may provide us more information about how the visual system is functioning compared to the more traditional, static vision tests alone. Previous research has demonstrated that consumption of caffeine has been shown to benefit physiological, psychomotor, and cognitive performance.  More recently there has been an increased interest in studying the impacts of caffeine on the vision system, however the impact of caffeine on dynamic visual acuity has not been studied.  This study was designed to address this limitation in the literature, particularly because dynamic visual acuity appears to be such an important visual function for real-world activities.   (more…)
Author Interviews, Macular Degeneration, Ophthalmology, PNAS / 27.10.2021

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Bradley D. Gelfand PhD Center for Advanced Vision Science Department of Ophthalmology Department of Biomedical Engineering University of Virginia School of Medicine Charlottesville, VA 22908  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Would you briefly describe dry AMD? Response: Dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a form of AMD that affects about 11 million people in the United States, and many millions more worldwide. Dry AMD is a disease affecting the macula, the central part of our retina that is responsible for fine visual acuity tasks - things like reading, driving, and recognizing faces. Dry AMD typically develops in people in their 6th, 7th, and 8th decades of life and begins with small changes to the retina that are unlikely to affect vision at first. As the disease progresses, it can develop into more advanced stages ("wet" AMD and geographic atrophy), which can cause blindness. Unfortunately, there is no approved treatment that can prevent dry AMD or its progression to advanced blinding stages. (more…)
Author Interviews, Genetic Research, Ophthalmology / 08.06.2021

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Louis Pasquale, MD, FARVO Professor of Ophthalmology Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Site Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology Mt. Sinai Hospital and Vice Chair of Translational Ophthalmology Research Mount Sinai Healthcare System  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Studies on the relation between caffeine intake and glaucoma have been contradictory, although our work suggested an adverse association amongst people with a self-reported family history of glaucoma. (more…)
Author Interviews, Heart Disease, Ophthalmology, Stem Cells / 07.06.2021

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Ian A. White, M.S., Ph.D. Founder, President & Chief Scientific Officer Neobiosis, LLC  Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute University of Miami MedicalResearch.com: What is the mission of Stem Cell Institute and Neobiosis?   The Interdisciplinary Stem Cell Institute at the University of Miami was established to capitalize on pioneering work in the use of adult stem cells for the repair of malfunctioning human organs. The goal of the Institute is to find new treatments for heart disease, neurological disease, bone disease, diabetes, cancer, eye diseases, and other chronic, debilitating, or incurable diseases. Neobiosis is a privately-owned biotech company dedicated to the manufacture and development of regenerative tissues, cells, and the secretome from perinatal sources. Our mission is to provide high-quality products for research and clinical trials by focusing on the science of regenerative medicine. (more…)
Exercise - Fitness, Ophthalmology / 07.05.2021

Are you a loving parent with a passion for helping your kids achieve the best that they can? It is only natural to want what is best for your family, so it is important to keep an eye on your physical and mental health to create a positive environment for your children to thrive in. As the coronavirus pandemic continues to necessitate restrictions around the world, parents everywhere are being forced to help their children learn from home. If you are starting to feel overwhelmed by the stress of the pandemic — and modern life in general — here are a few tips to help you stay positive and healthy so that you can provide your kids with the best care and attention possible.

Create a Timetable

timetable-schedule Having a reliable routine to adhere to is great way to ensure that you can keep things in perspective. You might just find that the secret benefits of a great timetable make all the difference when it comes to your daily well-being. Designating time for a break within your timetable can give you something to look forward to, while also providing a timeframe in which to achieve your current tasks. Making space for breaks can also be helpful when it comes to alleviating feelings like monotony and apathy. (more…)
Author Interviews, Genetic Research, Ophthalmology, Science / 12.03.2021

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: eye-eyecolor-geneticsDr Pirro Hysi Senior Lecturer in Ophthalmology Kings College London MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: - Iris (eye) color is an important human trait. It is one of the main features that makes our faces unique and recognizable. Iris color is similar to other pigmentatio traits, like hair and skin color, in that it is determined by the concentration and relative ratios of the melanin pigment. Pigmentation traits are roughly determined by several of the same genes regulating pigmentation, but many other genes seem to selectively determine pigmentation in any of these tissues. (more…)