Gene therapy shows promise for reversing blindness

In a laboratory study in Oxford, researchers have shown how it might be possible to reverse blindness using gene therapy to reprogram cells at the back of the eye to become light sensitive.

Stem-cell derived retina found to improve vision in monkeys with RP

Researchers at the RIKEN Institute in Japan have succeeded in growing human embryonic stem cell-derived retina (hESC-retina) and transplanting that tissue into the retinas of rhesus monkeys with Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP). Three weeks after the treatment, visual tests on two of the monkeys found their vision had improved.

Ranibizumab Found Effective Against Diabetic Retinopathy

In a randomized clinical trial conducted by DRCR.net of more than 300 participants, researchers have found that ranibizumab is an effective alternative to Panretinal photocoagulation (PRP) (laser therapy for treating diabetic retinopathy). Results also show that the drug therapy carries fewer side effects than the currently used laser treatment.

Ocular treatment likely to become first Gene Therapy approved in US

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Spark Therapeutics has announced positive results from the Phase 3 pivotal trial of its lead gene therapy product candidate, SPK-RPE65, for the treatment of RPE65-mediated inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs). These results represent the first successful randomized, controlled Phase 3 trial ever completed in gene therapy for a genetic disease.

Study Finds Anti-VEGF Therapy Safer Before Steroids for Retinal Vein Occlusion

In results from a new study that was presented at EURETINA, Aflibercept and ranibizumab were found to be safer than dexamethasone intravitreal implants for the treatment of central retinal vein occlusion.

First patient receives potential new treatment for wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

A pioneering trial of a new treatment derived from stem cells for people with wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) has commenced at Moorfields Eye Hospital following a successful operation on a patient.

Mediterranean Diet May Prevent Diabetic Retinopathy

(c) geneticliteracyproject.org

The Mediterranean diet may protect against diabetic retinopathy, according to a study published in Diabetes Care.