New research published this week in Clinical Epigenetics, has identified two new genes linked to the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Led by Dr. Louise Porter at the University of Liverpool, the team identified genes that may become new targets for treatments. 44 human donor eyes were profiled for levels of DNA methylation (a [Read More]
Category: Research and Developments
NIH researchers prevent blindness in animal models of dry AMD
Findings set stage for first clinical trial of stem cell-based therapeutic approach for AMD. Using a novel patient-specific stem cell-based therapy, researchers at the National Eye Institute (NEI) prevented blindness in animal models of geographic atrophy, the advanced “dry” form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The protocols established by the animal study* set the stage [Read More]
KSI-301 Joins List of Proposed Longer Lasting Anti-VEGF Drugs
Kodiak Sciences Inc. has announced promising results from their Phase 1 clinical trial of KSI-301, a novel anti-VEGF compound for the treatment of age-related macular degeneration, retinal vein occlusion, and diabetic macular edema. Currently approved anti-VEGF drugs require several monthly “loading dosages” at the beginning of the treatment regimen. Twelve weeks after a single dose [Read More]
Bold Print May Not Be All That Helpful
A well-known standard for publishing for low vision readers has been incorporation of large print, clear fonts, and bold lettering. Now a small study has shown that bold lettering may not be as important as previously thought. A team of researchers reported in December 2018 to the newsfeed of Science Direct that increasing boldness of [Read More]
Iron Supplementation Associated With Wet AMD
A report published in Review of Optometry on November 5, 2018 announced research* showing that non-anemic patients with wet age-related macular degeneration (wAMD) who take oral iron supplements may be at risk of retinal/subretinal hemorrhage. Researchers have found that use of oral iron supplements was significantly associated with retinal/subretinal hemorrhage at baseline in patients with [Read More]