by Robert Hammer, B. Optom. January 2002 The gene for Stargardt’s disease has been identified (Allikmet et al.’97 Nat. Gen. 15:236-246). The faulty gene fails to code for a protein which is present in rod outer segments only (has not been found in cones, pigment epithelium or anywhere else in the body). This protein was [Read More]
News
Cells From The Iris May Replace Retinal Photoreceptors
by Dan Roberts November 2001 An online publication of the December 2001 publication of Nature Neuroscience has reported that, with genetic manipulation, cells from the iris may be able to replace photoreceptor cells in the retina. In recent experiments, Dr. Masatoshi Haruta of Kyoto University and colleagues took iris cells from rat eyes, then introduced [Read More]
U-M Scientist Finds Clues in the Development of Light-Sensitive Eye Cells
by Betsy Nisbet November 2001 ANN ARBOR, MI – A paper published electronically by Nature Genetics offers important new insights into the development and differentiation of rod and cone photoreceptors, the light-sensitive cells in the eye’s retina that initiate vision and are essential for clear sight. A team led by Anand Swaroop, Ph.D., professor of [Read More]
You May Need Vitamin D
by Dan Roberts If you are protecting your retinas by avoiding direct sunlight, you may also be depriving yourself of a natural source of vitamin D. This is the vitamin which allows your body to absorb enough calcium for strong bones. It is also important to protect us against muscle weakness and possibly a risk [Read More]
Spinach For Sight
Light-sensitive proteins in chlorophyll may provide treatment for some eye diseases. by Carolyn Krause Reprinted with permission from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory ORNL Reporter, Issue 30, September 2001. Spinach, a vegetable famously rich in vitamins and minerals, can be safely assumed to be good for the eyes. A collaboration between ORNL researchers and the [Read More]