A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids is linked to a lower risk of a common age-related eye disease, new research shows. The findings come from a study tracking tens of thousands of women over 10 years, and researchers now suggest that food sources rich in this nutrient, such as fish, can promote eye health…. [Continue Reading]
Mechanisms Discovered that Underlie Macular Degeneration
February 8, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Macular degeneration is characterized by the death of cells in the retina, and affects millions of Americans. New research has revealed that the build-up of a particular molecule is responsible for the cell death. The discovery may help scientists develop new treatments to block cell death, one day potentially rescuing the vision of patients. A… [Continue Reading]
Beta Carotene Boosts Vision in Some Patients with Retinitis Pigmentosa
October 18, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Retinitis pigmentosa is a cluster of hereditary disorders of the retina (the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye) that can result in incurable blindness. Retinitis pigmentosa usually begins with night blindness in childhood, then loss of peripheral (side) vision leading to tunnel vision, and ultimately blindness. Since a specific form of the nutrient… [Continue Reading]
Scientists Have Uncovered a Gene Associated With Myopia
September 12, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Myopia (nearsightedness) is the most common eye disorder in the world and becoming more common, yet little is known about its genetic underpinnings. Scientists have uncovered a gene associated with myopia in Caucasian people from several different regions, including Dutch, British and Australian subjects. Myopia happens when the focal point of an image falls just… [Continue Reading]
New Neurological Deficit Behind Lazy Eye Identified
September 10, 2010 By Leave a Comment
Researchers have identified a new neurological deficit behind amblyopia, or “lazy eye.” Their findings shed additional light on how amblyopia results from disrupted links between the brain and normal visual processing. Amblyopia results from developmental problems in the brain. When the parts of the brain concerned with visual processing do not function properly, problems ensue… [Continue Reading]
Resveratrol Could Prevent Eye Diseases Such As Diabetic Retinopathy
June 25, 2010 By Leave a Comment
According to vision researchers, resveratrol – found in red wine, grapes, blueberries, peanuts and other plants – stops out-of-control blood vessel growth in the eye. The discovery has implications for preserving vision in blinding eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in Americans over 50. The formation… [Continue Reading]
Link Between Iron Overload and Macular Degeneration Investigated
June 24, 2010 By Leave a Comment
The most common – and under-diagnosed – genetic disease in humans just may be a cause of the worst form of macular degeneration, Medical College of Georgia researchers report. They are pursuing a link between hemochromatosis, which results in iron overload, and the wet form of macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in people… [Continue Reading]