by Dan Roberts January, 2003 (Updated September, 2004) Scientists are researching a new method of retinal transplantation in the continuing effort to restore sight to the blind. Drs. Robert Aramant and Magdalene Seiler (Doheny Eye Institute, Los Angeles) have had preliminary success transplanting double layers of cells from the retinas of aborted fetuses. The two [Read More]
Category: Research and Developments
Second AMD Gene Discovered
A second gene, called fibulin 5, has been shown to be related to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The discovery was announced in the July 22, 2004 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine by a team from the Research Center for Macular Degeneration and Allied Retinal Diseases at the University of Iowa. Earlier research [Read More]
C-reactive Protein Levels Connected to Macular Degeneration
by Dan Roberts There has been a good deal of excitement about the possible connection between the level of C-reactive protein (CRP) in the blood and various diseases, including macular degeneration. CRP is responsible for the healing benefit of inflammation that occurs when a part of the body is in trouble. If, however, the level [Read More]
FFB-Sponsored Study Leads to Discovery of New AMD Gene
(Press release from the Foundation Fighting Blindness) October 21, 2003 An exciting gene discovery by an FFB-funded researcher adds to the growing proof that macular degeneration can be hereditary. This is the first gene mutation found that is directly tied to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The discovery of this gene mutation bolsters hope for a [Read More]
RDH5 Gene Mutation Can Cause Macular Dystrophy
by Dan Roberts September 2003 Japanese researchers have found that mutations in the RDH5 gene can cause macular dystrophy, fundus albipunctatus, and/or night blindness. Twenty-one patients from nineteen different families with fundus albipunctatus were analyzed. Ten of the patients had macular dystrophy. In eighteen, mutations were found in the RDH5. The patients were tested using [Read More]