A new method has been studied for turning cells into multipurpose stem cells. The technique, which exposes cells to a mild acid bath, may present a more efficient source of stem cells than those currently in use. While this method was only performed in a study with mice, the hope is it can be reproduced with human cells in the future.
The new method was tested by researchers in Kobe, Japan and in Boston. To achieve pluripotency, Continue reading “New Method for Creating Stem Cells”
People in developing countries can face huge hurdles getting cataracts correctly diagnosed and treated. A new smartphone app called “Vula” helps diagnose cataracts using a photograph. A routine and very short cataract surgery can then be scheduled. This app is helping overcome barriers to treating this very common source of vision impairment and blindness.
Cataracts are a film that form on the lens of the Continue reading “Cataracts Easy to Diagnose with New Vula Smartphone App”
With cataracts affecting nearly 22 million Americans, it’s not surprising that most of us know people who have had cataract surgery. We may even be contemplating cataract surgery for ourselves. Since cataracts are almost never a medical emergency, you should feel entirely comfortable taking the time to learn more about cataracts and explore all your options.
What is a Cataract?
A cataract is simply a spot on the lens of the eye that you cannot readily see through. These spots are made up of clumps of normal eye protein and generally form slowly over time. Although most cataracts are related to aging, it is also possible for cataracts Continue reading “What are the Symptoms and Treatments for Cataracts?”
Researchers have found that there is a correlation between a larger brain volume and higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids. This suggests that the typical loss of brain cells and volume that occurs with age can be slowed with diet changes and supplements to increase omega-3 intake.
Two types of omega-3 fatty acids in particular–eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)–were examined Continue reading “More Omega-3 May Reduce Brain Shrinkage”
Many advances in technology that could improve the lives of blind people are on the horizon. Solutions that were thought impossible not long ago are now becoming a reality for many patients suffering from retinal diseases. Treatments such as gene therapy, stem cells, and bionic retinas have shown that vision loss can in fact be reversible.
Common degenerative diseases of the retina, like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinitis pigmentosa (RP), affect tens of millions of people worldwide, but blindness resulting from these conditions had previously been considered irreversible. Continue reading “Fighting Blindness with Gene Therapy, Stem Cells, Bionics”
A cutting-edge project has produced a vast “road map” for proteins in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choroid of the eye. The project, conducted by recent grantees of a BrightFocus grant, mapped the locations and quantities of 4,403 different eye proteins. This research could be invaluable to further understanding of conditions such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Continue reading “Eye Protein Road Map for AMD”
A biodegradable contact lens is being developed that would administer glaucoma medication and then disappear. The problem with eye drops is that they slip out of the eye and much of the medication is lost. This contact lens, designed by Mridula P. Menon in India, uses a nano-carrier loaded with the glaucoma drug acetazolamide that is dissolved in a transparent vinyl polymer.
The resulting lens can be easily inserted into the Continue reading “New Glaucoma Contact Lens Dissolves”
In a new article, “Vision & Posture,” Dr. Mark Fillipi, D.C., illuminates the relationship between vision and posture in the body. These two systems develop differently, but they become intricately intertwined as the brain and body advance. Dr. Fillipi unravels this complex relationship to explain why vision and posture depend so strongly on the health and functioning of the eye itself.
In order to receive and interpret light signals as vision, the physical posture is corrected so that the head and eyes can take in visual information. Visual input, Continue reading “How Are Vision & Posture Related? Dr. Fillipi Explains”
When our far peripheral retina, which is responsible for our extreme side vision, becomes weak and thin, its most common form is called “lattice degeneration.” This condition occurs in 8 to 11 percent of the normal population. It affects both eyes in 30-50% of patients who have the condition.
The fibrosed vessels within the atrophied retina form a “lattice” pattern, hence its name. Sometimes it is accompanied by retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) hyperplasia (an increase in cells), which gives the lesions a pigmented appearance. Some 18 to 42 percent of the Continue reading “Lattice Degeneration, a Retinal Disease: Complete Overview”
Lattice degeneration’s development is often found only as a doctor examines the eyes in peripheral retinal exams or for other conditions. It doesn’t affect central vision or cause noticeable symptoms, although the patient may notice many sudden floaters, light flashes, or loss of peripheral vision.
There are no specific measurable risk factors for lattice degeneration. However, research has repeatedly shown that healthy vision for those with retinal (kidney) conditions can be supported and even maintained with a healthy lifestyle (included a good vision diet and regular exercise) and taking targeted supplements.
Therefore we recommend a general health protocol that includes fresh juices, lots of Continue reading “Lattice Degeneration – Who is at Risk?”