All articles tagged with #retinal health
A Japanese research team developed an intramuscular mRNA vaccine targeting LRG1 that significantly reduces abnormal blood vessel growth in mouse models of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), offering a less invasive alternative to current eye injections and showing promise for transforming AMD treatment.
Low vitamin D levels can impact eye health and potentially cause blindness; it's important to monitor retinal health, consider individual genetic and lifestyle factors, avoid high-dose bolus supplements without medical supervision, and maintain a balanced diet and lifestyle to support ocular health.
Researchers have developed a machine learning model that can predict a person's biological age and mortality risk by analyzing their retinas, with older-looking retinas being linked to a higher risk of early death. The study suggests that the retina may serve as a window into overall health, particularly vascular and brain health, and could potentially be a valuable tool for clinicians due to its non-invasive nature and quick scanning process. However, the exact biological mechanisms behind this relationship remain unclear, and further research is needed to fully understand the implications of retinal health on mortality risk.
A new study published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews suggests that blue light-blocking glasses may not provide relief from computer-induced eye strain or improve sleep quality. The study found no substantial evidence to support the effectiveness of these glasses in reducing visual fatigue or protecting the retina from light-induced damage. While no serious side effects were reported, the study does not support the prescription of blue light glasses to the general population. Further research is needed to determine the long-term effects and efficacy of these glasses.
A review of 17 randomized controlled trials published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews suggests that blue-light filtering glasses may not reduce eyestrain associated with computer use. The review also found inconsistent evidence regarding the glasses' impact on sleep quality and retinal health. Eye-care professionals have long maintained that blue-light blocking glasses do not provide significant health benefits for the eyes. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has stated that blue light does not cause eyestrain or damage retinas. Experts recommend other measures to reduce eyestrain, such as following the "20-20" rule and maintaining appropriate distance from screens.
The Kynurenine pathway, responsible for eye pigment formation, also plays a crucial role in maintaining retinal health under stress conditions, according to a study by researchers from the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics. The study used Drosophila melanogaster as a model system to unravel the role of individual metabolites in retinal health and found that the balance between toxic and protective metabolites, such as 3-hydroxykynurenine and Kynurenic Acid, respectively, influences the degree of retinal degeneration. The researchers suggest that therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative conditions should take into account the ratio and location of Kynurenine pathway metabolites.