Lanosterol Eye Drops could reverse protein aggregation in cataracts

The human lens is comprised largely of crystallin proteins assembled into a highly ordered, interactive macro-structure essential for lens transparency and refractive index. Any disruption of intra- or inter-protein interactions will alter this delicate structure, exposing hydrophobic surfaces, with consequent protein aggregation and cataract formation. Cataracts are the most common cause of blindness worldwide, affecting tens of millions of people¹, and currently the only treatment is surgical removal of cataractous lenses.

Researchers at University of California San Diego have identified lanosterol as a key molecule in the prevention of cataract formation that points to a novel strategy for cataract prevention and non-surgical treatment. The abstract is freely available fromNature. If you have cataracts, you might want to purchase a full reprint while you can still read it.

Similar eye drops have been used to treat cataracts in Europe for many years.

For more info:

http://www.nature.com/nature/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/nature14650.html

http://news.sciencemag.org/health/2015/07/eye-drops-could-dissolve-cataracts

Simple Adjustments Around the Home Can Help Those with Low Vision

The American Assoc of Ophthalmologists recommends the following.

A common condition among seniors, low vision can make everyday activities difficult, increasing reliance on loved ones and caregivers while increasing the risk of falls and depression. However, here are a few simple adjustments around the home that can lessen this dependency for those with less severe forms of low vision.

1.  Place furniture in small groupings so less distance vision is required during a conversation

2.  Set brightly colored accessories around the home to help with locating the items around them.

3.  Brighter lighting can help with reading and activities such as sewing or cooking.

4.  Embrace technology. There are a variety of technology-based tools for smartphones and tablets designed to aid people with low vision.

5.  Tape down area rugs and remove electrical cords from pathways to decrease risk of falling and injury.

6.  Keep up with eye exams.

For more info:

http://www.geteyesmart.org/eyesmart/living/simple-adjustments-around-home-can-help-those-with-low-vision.cfm

List of Resources for Macular Degeneration

The Bright Focus Foundation has compiled a useful list of resources to help you cope with Macular Degeneration and its related problems.

On this website, you’ll find:

• Caregiving and Caregiver Support
• Eye Care Professional Organizations
• Federal Government Programs and Services
• General Information, Resources and Referrals
• Home Safety and Low-Vision Aid Resources
• Legal Assistance
• Low Vision Organizations
• Print and Audio Materials for the Visually Impaired
• Research and Clinical Trials
• Senior Housing, Long-term Care
• State and Local Resources

http://www.brightfocus.org/macular/organizations

Smartphone App to detect eye disease early

Researchers have developed an application that can detect eye diseases like diabetic macular edema.

The app, developed by a team from the Medical and Surgical Centre for Retina in Mexico, uses the camera of the phone to detect any abnormality in the thickness of the retina.

The move is aimed at general physicians who can detect the condition and refer the patient to a specialist.

“The idea is to detect and prevent diseases in general practice. We are not replacing the specialist. We want to know which patients have a disease and make an early detection,” said Dr Juan Carlos Altamirano Vallejo, medical director of the Medical and Surgical Centre for Retina.

For people with diabetes, this app will help them know whether they are suffering with macular degeneration, edema and diabetic retinopathy.

The software, developed in collaboration with biomedical engineers from the Spain-based the Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education (ITESM) has been satisfactory and is expected to soon be marketed and incorporated the basic health system.

For more info: 

http://zeenews.india.com/news/health/diseases-conditions/app-to-detect-eye-disease-early_1625478.html

http://en.miui.com/thread-130195-1-1.html

http://gadgets.ndtv.com/apps/news/smartphone-app-to-help-detect-eye-diseases-711896?site=classic