Histological section of a ciliary body. Credit: University of Bristol
A new study led by the University of Bristol has shown a common eye condition, glaucoma, could be successfully treated with a single injection using gene therapy, which would improve treatment options, effectiveness and quality of life for many patients.
Glaucoma affects over 64 million people worldwide and is a leading cause of irreversible blindness. It is usually caused by fluid building up in the front part of the eye, which increases pressure inside the eye and progressively damages the nerves responsible for sight. Current treatments include either eye drops, laser or surgery, all of which have limitations and disadvantages.
The research team led by academics at the Bristol Medical School: Translational Health Sciences tested a new approach that could provide additional treatment options and benefits. Their findings are published in the journal Molecular Therapy.
The researchers designed a gene therapy and demonstrated proof of concept using experimental mouse models of glaucoma and human donor tissue.
The treatment targeted part of the eye called the ciliary body, which produces the fluid that maintains pressure within the eye. Using the latest gene editing technology called CRISPR, a gene called Aquaporin 1 in the ciliary body was inactivated leading to reduced eye pressure.
Dr Colin Chu, Visiting Senior Research Fellow in the Bristol Medical School: Translational Health Sciences and corresponding author, said: “Currently there is no cure for glaucoma, which can lead to loss of vision if the disease is not diagnosed and treated early.
“We hope to advance towards clinical trials for this new treatment in the near future. If it’s successful it could allow a long-term treatment of glaucoma with a single eye injection, which would improve the quality of life for many patients whilst saving the NHS time and money.”
The academics are currently in discussion with industry partners to support further laboratory work and rapidly progress this new treatment option towards clinical trials.
The Latest Updates from Bing News & Google News
Go deeper with Bing News on:
Glaucoma
- Suffering from glaucoma? Stop performing these 7 Yoga asanas
Glaucoma, known as the “silent thief of sight” is a symptomless disease that is not curable but the progress of glaucoma can be stopped and total blindness can be prevented if it is detected early. St ...
- Glaucoma Awareness Campaign at Hili Rayhaan by Rotana in collaboration with Burjeel Hospital Farha
As part of Rotana's Corporate Social Responsibility, Hili Rayhaan by Rotana in collaboration with Burjeel Hospital Farha hosted a glaucoma awareness talk, presented by Dr. Muhammad Arshad (Consultant ...
- Glaucoma Treatment Market 2023: Growth Outlook and Forecast 2027 with Top Leaders, Size and Share Analysis
Glaucoma Treatment Market” Qualitative Research Report 2023-2027 offers an crucial insights into key price chain ...
- Santen to be recognized with award from Glaucoma Research Foundation
Santen Pharmaceutical Co. will receive the Glaucoma Research Foundation's Catalyst Award, the organization's highest distinction.
- Video: Protecting your eyesight from glaucoma
Glaucoma is one of the world's leading causes of blindness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. Half of people with glaucoma don't even ...
Go deeper with Google Headlines on:
Glaucoma
[google_news title=”” keyword=”glaucoma” num_posts=”5″ blurb_length=”0″ show_thumb=”left”]
Go deeper with Bing News on:
Glaucoma gene therapy
- Novel gene therapy shows promise for treating multiple eye diseases
A gene therapeutic approach that shows promise for treating age-related macular degeneration (AMD) may also be effective in treating other eye conditions such as glaucoma. It provided benefit in three ...
- Video: Protecting your eyesight from glaucoma
Glaucoma is one of the world's leading causes of blindness, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. January is Glaucoma Awareness Month. Half of people with glaucoma don't ...
- Glaucoma Awareness Month: Self-care methods to avoid the severity of Glaucoma
Treatment options for glaucoma may include eye drops, laser therapy, eye surgery, or a combination of these, depending on the kind and stage of the condition. The condition requires lifelong ...
- What to know about your vision and glaucoma awareness | Mark Mahoney
One important issue to be aware of in terms of potential causes of vision loss is glaucoma. It is sometimes called the “silent thief of sight” because it slowly damages the eyes and can cause ...
- Senior living: Glaucoma and how to spot the signs of vision impairment
More than 3 million Americans have glaucoma, and man y of them are seniors older than 65. Approximately 75% of people who are legally blind because of glaucoma are seniors, in fact. And it is ...
Go deeper with Google Headlines on:
Glaucoma gene therapy
[google_news title=”” keyword=”glaucoma gene therapy” num_posts=”5″ blurb_length=”0″ show_thumb=”left”]