A National Eye Institute study has reported an impressive success rate at early detection of wet (neovascular) age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The study compared two groups of dry AMD patients and compared the proportion within each group for patients presenting with 20/40 acuity or better when their wet AMD was detected. An experimental group used [Read More]
Category: Research and Developments
Does Calcium Cause AMD?
New research may be misconstrued by Dan Roberts A recent press release from the University of Maryland School of Medicine has found that tiny spherules of calcium phosphate known as hydroxyapatite, or HAP) may be an important “triggering factor” for age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The report appeared in the latest issue of the Proceedings of the National Academy of [Read More]
FHL-1 Protein Deficiency May Cause AMD
A protein released by the complement factor H (CFH) gene has been thought to be responsible for protecting the retina from inflammation leading to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Scientists from the University of Manchester have, however, now discovered that the protein factor H is not the main regulator of immunity. Instead, it is a different [Read More]
CFH and CFB Proteins May Lead to AMD
by Dan Roberts Updated October 2011 Two genes have been shown to lead to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in recent studies. In 2005, the first suspect protein was discovered by three separate research centers. Called Complement Factor H (CFH), it may be a cause of AMD in as many as 50% of cases. CFH helps [Read More]
A More Refined Artificial Retina Shows Early Promise
A number of devices, such as the Argus II, have been developed over recent years to replace the human retina. Many, however, use metallic parts, cumbersome wiring or have low resolution. An interdisciplinary team from Tel Aviv University, the Hebrew University of Jerusalem Centers for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology and Newcastle University, are developing what they [Read More]