Activation of the molecular chaperone, sigma 1 receptor, preserves cone function in a murine model of inherited retinal degeneration.

Retinal degenerative diseases are major causes of untreatable blindness, and novel approaches to treatment are being sought actively. Here we explored the activation of a unique protein, sigma 1 receptor (Sig1R), in the treatment of PRC loss because of its multifaceted role in cellular survival.  We used Pde6βrd10 (rd10) mice, which harbor a mutation in…

Retinitis Pigmentosa: FDA approves first retinal implant for advanced adult RP

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is a group of inherited disorders characterized by progressive peripheral vision loss and night vision difficulties (nyctalopia) that can lead to central vision loss. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the first retinal implant, the Argus II Retinal Prosthesis System, for adults aged 25 years or older with advanced RP. The…

Rosemary Compound Shown To Help Fight Macular Degeneration In Mouse Model

A new study led by the Sanford-Burnham Medical Research Institute reports that carnosic acid, found in the herb rosemary, actually promotes eye health. Led by Dr. Stuart A. Lipton, the team found that carnosic acid protects the retina from degeneration and toxicity in cell culture and in rodent models of light-induced retinal damage. This suggests…

Magnetic stimulation as retinal treatment

Brainsway Ltd. has announced interim results from an animal study being conducted at the Sheba Medical Center to explore the effects of the company’s transcranial magnetic stimulation device on age-related macular degeneration. A short-lasting improvement in the retina’s response to light was observed following this stage of the study, with the rats who received the magnetic…