Human cells may not be unlike electric batteries. They from time to time have small energy retailers or can’t hold vigor. Micro Present-day Stimulation Remedy provides your cells with all the “energy” it takes, similar in order to recharging a new battery. Studies in addition have shown this MCS Remedy increases microcirculatory circulation, increases ATP concentrations plus stimulates amino acidity and source of nourishment concentrations directly into cells.
Every located cell inside body has a power charge. It is theorized that a part of what creates macular degeneration is usually a loss with the energy source inside cell, or losing the electrical charge. As being a flashlight will not likely work without getting a charged battery pack, the photoreceptors inside retina will not likely function not having an energy source. MCS Remedy is shown to increase the energy source within your cell.
This Macular Degeneration Foundation identified in starting pre-clinical trials by groundbreaking ophthalmologists plus researchers this micro present-day stimulation therapy can boost visual acuity, sharpness plus color perception in 68 percentage of individuals with dry out macular weakening and 58 percent of those with your wet kind. Reports from Russia advocate similar benefits.
A review published by way of Dr. Merrell J. Allen plus Dr. Leland N. Michael eligible Nutritional By using supplements, Electrical Excitement and Age Related Macular Degeneration showed this 60 percentage of individuals showed much better in visible acuity following combining micro present-day stimulation therapy and natural supplementation.
Drs. Leeway Halloran plus August L. Viewer studied 25 individuals declared with generally untreatable vision diseases including macular weakening, retinitis pigmentosa, CMV-retinitis, plus diabetic retinopathy. The individuals were handled with combining micro present-day stimulation therapy and natural supplementation. Overall final results showed outstanding increase with visual job in visible acuity in many and plainly established your safety with the combination of MCS therapy and natural supplementation.
Showing posts with label see. Show all posts
Showing posts with label see. Show all posts
Friday, January 28, 2011
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Sustained-release implants on track for retinal vascular disease treatment
by:Elias Reichel
KAANAPALI, Hawaii — Sustained-release corticosteroids will play a significant role in retinal vascular disease, but the current implants still need improvements, one presenter here said.
"It is important to realize [steroids] will have a continued role in our treatment of diseases. They may also serve for adjunctive [therapies] like stem cell treatments and [instances] where transplantation or immunoreactions may occur," Elias Reichel, MD, who discussed outcomes using Ozurdex (dexamethasone intravitreal implant, Allergan) and Iluvien (fluocinolone acetonide intravitreal implant, Alimera), said at Retina 2011. "So, having a better delivery system for corticosteroids is very useful for many of the diseases we are seeing in our offices."
Challenges include needing to achieve and maintain clinically effective concentrations in the vitreous over time while maximizing efficacy and minimizing adverse effects, Dr. Reichel said.
As part of a 6-month study, the dexamethasone implant demonstrated 2- to 3-month peak efficacy, had a low incidence of IOP issues and conferred a cataract progression of approximately 5%. Additionally, 45% of the patients gained three lines of visual acuity, Dr. Reichel said.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the device for all retinal venous obstructive disease.
The fluocinolone implant is now part of a 36-month study and has demonstrated efficacy to at least 30 months. Between 30% and 40% of patients gained at least three lines of visual acuity. However, the device has a moderately higher risk of IOP issues and a cataract progression rate of 50%, according to Dr. Reichel.
The device has received a complete response letter from the FDA.
"Current formulations that we have are good but can be better," Dr. Reichel said. "We really have to look at longer duration and this reduced risk trade-off."
* Disclosure: Dr. Reichel is a consultant to Alimera and Allergan.
KAANAPALI, Hawaii — Sustained-release corticosteroids will play a significant role in retinal vascular disease, but the current implants still need improvements, one presenter here said.
"It is important to realize [steroids] will have a continued role in our treatment of diseases. They may also serve for adjunctive [therapies] like stem cell treatments and [instances] where transplantation or immunoreactions may occur," Elias Reichel, MD, who discussed outcomes using Ozurdex (dexamethasone intravitreal implant, Allergan) and Iluvien (fluocinolone acetonide intravitreal implant, Alimera), said at Retina 2011. "So, having a better delivery system for corticosteroids is very useful for many of the diseases we are seeing in our offices."
Challenges include needing to achieve and maintain clinically effective concentrations in the vitreous over time while maximizing efficacy and minimizing adverse effects, Dr. Reichel said.
As part of a 6-month study, the dexamethasone implant demonstrated 2- to 3-month peak efficacy, had a low incidence of IOP issues and conferred a cataract progression of approximately 5%. Additionally, 45% of the patients gained three lines of visual acuity, Dr. Reichel said.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved the device for all retinal venous obstructive disease.
The fluocinolone implant is now part of a 36-month study and has demonstrated efficacy to at least 30 months. Between 30% and 40% of patients gained at least three lines of visual acuity. However, the device has a moderately higher risk of IOP issues and a cataract progression rate of 50%, according to Dr. Reichel.
The device has received a complete response letter from the FDA.
"Current formulations that we have are good but can be better," Dr. Reichel said. "We really have to look at longer duration and this reduced risk trade-off."
* Disclosure: Dr. Reichel is a consultant to Alimera and Allergan.
Sunday, January 9, 2011
FDA approves embryonic stem cells to reverse macular degeneration
by:Admin
Sacramento is now the hub of stem-cell research focusing on regenerative medicine. See the article, UC Davis: Stem Cell Research. After receiving $62 million for stem cell research last year, the new UC Davis Institute for Regenerative Cures opened. And the center already is testing dozens of therapies in the laboratory. The center will bring 200 scientists and laboratory personnel together under one roof. Check out the UC Davis Stem Cell Institute. See UC Davis Stem Cell Program. And check out the site, UCDMC Stem Cell Research News.
Now that the FDA has approved embryonic stem cells today, to help reverse certain types of macular degeneration, consumers should know that the stem cell taken from an embryo does not destroy the embryo. Just a single stem cell is taken from the embryo. Then the embryo continues to thrive and is not destroyed.
California sites currently under consideration for the trials include the Jules Stein Eye Institute at UCLA and the Ophthalmology Department at Stanford University. Check out the government site listing clinical trials, Clinical Trials.gov.
Also, in the Sacramento and Davis regional area, did you know that the University of California is recruiting for or has completed at least 193 clinical trials on various types of health studies ranging from the health benefits of ground flax seeds to stem cell research? Also see the January 4, 2011 news article, Read: Vitamin Drug Could Stop Dry Macular Degeneration.
Concerning studies at another university on macular degeneration and stem cell research, if you're interested in stem cell research for macular degeneration, the breaking news is that the FDA has just approved the use of stem cells to treat certain types of macular degeneration. According to a January 4, 2011 news article, "FDA Approves Stem Cell Treatment Trial for AMD-Related Vision Loss," the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a clinical trial of human embryonic stem-cell treatments on patients who have suffered vision loss related to dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Advanced Cell Technology of Massachusetts will begin a Phase I/II open-label study on twelve patients at multiple clinical sites to determine the safety and tolerability of the treatment. The dry version of macular degeneration is a leading cause of blindness in older adults. Dry age-related macular degeneration is one of two forms of an eye disease that breaks down retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells in the macula of the retina, a layer of light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Progressive loss of RPE cells and the accompanying loss of photoreceptors can cause severe vision loss. There are no current treatments available for AMD.
Dry AMD is the leading cause of blindness in individuals over the age of 55, afflicting approximately 10 million people in the US. And as the population ages, according to the article, "FDA Approves Stem Cell Treatment Trial for AMD-Related Vision Loss."
In the clinical trials and approved experiments, patients will receive 50,000 to 2,000,000 RPE cells derived from human embryonic stem cells to replace those lost due to AMD. While human embryonic stem cell use is controversial, ACT maintains that their cells are derived from a single-cell extraction technology that “does not destroy the embryo.” Also read the article, Read: Smoking Raises Risk of Macular Degeneration.
Sacramento is now the hub of stem-cell research focusing on regenerative medicine. See the article, UC Davis: Stem Cell Research. After receiving $62 million for stem cell research last year, the new UC Davis Institute for Regenerative Cures opened. And the center already is testing dozens of therapies in the laboratory. The center will bring 200 scientists and laboratory personnel together under one roof. Check out the UC Davis Stem Cell Institute. See UC Davis Stem Cell Program. And check out the site, UCDMC Stem Cell Research News.
Now that the FDA has approved embryonic stem cells today, to help reverse certain types of macular degeneration, consumers should know that the stem cell taken from an embryo does not destroy the embryo. Just a single stem cell is taken from the embryo. Then the embryo continues to thrive and is not destroyed.
California sites currently under consideration for the trials include the Jules Stein Eye Institute at UCLA and the Ophthalmology Department at Stanford University. Check out the government site listing clinical trials, Clinical Trials.gov.
Also, in the Sacramento and Davis regional area, did you know that the University of California is recruiting for or has completed at least 193 clinical trials on various types of health studies ranging from the health benefits of ground flax seeds to stem cell research? Also see the January 4, 2011 news article, Read: Vitamin Drug Could Stop Dry Macular Degeneration.
Concerning studies at another university on macular degeneration and stem cell research, if you're interested in stem cell research for macular degeneration, the breaking news is that the FDA has just approved the use of stem cells to treat certain types of macular degeneration. According to a January 4, 2011 news article, "FDA Approves Stem Cell Treatment Trial for AMD-Related Vision Loss," the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a clinical trial of human embryonic stem-cell treatments on patients who have suffered vision loss related to dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
Advanced Cell Technology of Massachusetts will begin a Phase I/II open-label study on twelve patients at multiple clinical sites to determine the safety and tolerability of the treatment. The dry version of macular degeneration is a leading cause of blindness in older adults. Dry age-related macular degeneration is one of two forms of an eye disease that breaks down retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells in the macula of the retina, a layer of light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Progressive loss of RPE cells and the accompanying loss of photoreceptors can cause severe vision loss. There are no current treatments available for AMD.
Dry AMD is the leading cause of blindness in individuals over the age of 55, afflicting approximately 10 million people in the US. And as the population ages, according to the article, "FDA Approves Stem Cell Treatment Trial for AMD-Related Vision Loss."
In the clinical trials and approved experiments, patients will receive 50,000 to 2,000,000 RPE cells derived from human embryonic stem cells to replace those lost due to AMD. While human embryonic stem cell use is controversial, ACT maintains that their cells are derived from a single-cell extraction technology that “does not destroy the embryo.” Also read the article, Read: Smoking Raises Risk of Macular Degeneration.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Genetic Testing for AMD is here Today
By; Diana Shechtman OD FAAO & Steven Ferrucci OD FAAO
Age-Related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive disease and the leading cause of vision loss among the elderly, affecting central vision required for daily activities such as driving and reading. There are a number of factors affecting AMD, such as advanced age, smoking, UV exposure, overall health (that contribute to high blood pressure, obesity, diet) and family history. Many factors may be modified and yet others like genetics cannot. Although AMD may seem to be hereditary in some families and not others, genetics have been shown to contribute significantly to the disease. Multiple twin and sibling studies have collaborated to the familial nature of the disease. First-degree relatives of patients with AMD are at a significantly increased risk for the disease. Furthermore, large epidemiological studies have suggested a strong genetic risk factor for AMD. In fact, the risk of developing AMD increases 4 fold among patients with a positive family history. In 2005 a breakthrough occurred in the area of genetic research and AMD; Klein and associates discovered a strong link between AMD and certain genetic variants. Similarly, numerous other genes have been implicated in AMD, which may increase the risk of AMD up to 70%.
Until recently there was no test to help determined patient’s inherited risk for AMD. Today, Macula Risk (ArcticDX, Toronto, Ontario) is a genetic test specifically designed to determine genetic predisposition to AMD and vision loss attributed to the more advanced stage of the disease.
Macula Risk genetic test separates individuals into one of 5 macula risk (MR) categories, with MR 3 through 5 representing an increased risk for the more advance stage of the disease. This accounts for approximately 20% of the general population. MR1 has less than a 5% risk of the advanced stage of the disease, while MR 5 carries greater than 55% risk. These results can aid the doctor in devising a specific management plan and follow-up protocol in order to reassure early intervention to prevent vision loss.
The test only requires a simple in-office cheek swab, which is sent directly to the genetic lab. The report includes test results and written genetic support information (including access to genetic counseling). Macula Risk genetic testing is covered by most insurance providers, including Medicare, as long as the specific diagnosis (ICD-9) are identified by the doctor. The prognostic genetic test is intended for patients who have a diagnosis of early or intermediate AMD. Thus, the “at risk patient,” would have to pay a fee for the test.
Despite our best efforts and new treatment options available today, many people are still losing vision from AMD. New advancements in the area of AMD are becoming an integral part in preventing future visual deterioration. AMD is affected by both environmental and genetic factors that interact with one another to determine prevalence and progression of the disease. Furthermore, at this time we do not know all of the genes linked to AMD. Hence, genetic testing in the area of AMD is only a risk indicator and cannot predict “without a shadow of a doubt,” which patients will and which will not develop the disease. However, this test provides a genetic profile screening to help identify those at risk as well as aids in tailoring a distinct management approach for those with the disease. With various researches devoted to treatment options for AMD, genetic testing in the area of AMD is at the frontier of providing crucial information.
REFERENCES
1. Swaroop, Branham KE, Chen W, Abecasis G. Genetic susceptibility to age-related macular degeneration: a paradigm for dissecting complex disease traits. Hum Mol Genet 2007; 16: 174-82.
2. Klein ML, Mauldin WM, Stoumbos VD. Heredity and age-related macular degeneration. Observations in monozygotic twins. Arch Ophthalmol. 1994; 112: 932-7.
3. Meyers SM, Greene T, Gutman FA. A twin study of age-related macular degeneration. Am J Ophthalmol. 1995; 120: 757-66.
4. Heiba IM, Elston RC, Klein BE, et al. Sibling correlations and segregation analysis of age-related maculopathy: The Beaver Dam Eye Study. Genet Epidemiol. 1994; 11: 51-67.
5. Klaver CC, Wolfs RC, Assink JJ, et al. Genetic risk of age-related maculopathy. Population-based familial aggregation study. Arch Ophthalmol. 1998; 116: 1646-51.
6. Seddon JM, Ajani UA, Mitchell BD. Familial aggregation of age-related maculopathy. Am J Ophthalmol. 1997; 123: 199-206.
7. Klein RJ, Zeiss C, Chew EY, et al. Complement Factor H Polymorphism in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Science 2005; 308: 385-389.
8. Seddon JM, Reynolds R, Maller J, Fagerness JA, Daly MJ, Rosner B. Prediction model for prevalence and incidence of advanced age-related macular degeneration based on genetic, demographic, and environmental variables. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2009; 50 (65): 2044-53.
9. www.macularisk.com/en/physicians/order.html (accessed Dec. 14th , 2010)
Age-Related macular degeneration (AMD) is a progressive disease and the leading cause of vision loss among the elderly, affecting central vision required for daily activities such as driving and reading. There are a number of factors affecting AMD, such as advanced age, smoking, UV exposure, overall health (that contribute to high blood pressure, obesity, diet) and family history. Many factors may be modified and yet others like genetics cannot. Although AMD may seem to be hereditary in some families and not others, genetics have been shown to contribute significantly to the disease. Multiple twin and sibling studies have collaborated to the familial nature of the disease. First-degree relatives of patients with AMD are at a significantly increased risk for the disease. Furthermore, large epidemiological studies have suggested a strong genetic risk factor for AMD. In fact, the risk of developing AMD increases 4 fold among patients with a positive family history. In 2005 a breakthrough occurred in the area of genetic research and AMD; Klein and associates discovered a strong link between AMD and certain genetic variants. Similarly, numerous other genes have been implicated in AMD, which may increase the risk of AMD up to 70%.
Until recently there was no test to help determined patient’s inherited risk for AMD. Today, Macula Risk (ArcticDX, Toronto, Ontario) is a genetic test specifically designed to determine genetic predisposition to AMD and vision loss attributed to the more advanced stage of the disease.
Macula Risk genetic test separates individuals into one of 5 macula risk (MR) categories, with MR 3 through 5 representing an increased risk for the more advance stage of the disease. This accounts for approximately 20% of the general population. MR1 has less than a 5% risk of the advanced stage of the disease, while MR 5 carries greater than 55% risk. These results can aid the doctor in devising a specific management plan and follow-up protocol in order to reassure early intervention to prevent vision loss.
The test only requires a simple in-office cheek swab, which is sent directly to the genetic lab. The report includes test results and written genetic support information (including access to genetic counseling). Macula Risk genetic testing is covered by most insurance providers, including Medicare, as long as the specific diagnosis (ICD-9) are identified by the doctor. The prognostic genetic test is intended for patients who have a diagnosis of early or intermediate AMD. Thus, the “at risk patient,” would have to pay a fee for the test.
Despite our best efforts and new treatment options available today, many people are still losing vision from AMD. New advancements in the area of AMD are becoming an integral part in preventing future visual deterioration. AMD is affected by both environmental and genetic factors that interact with one another to determine prevalence and progression of the disease. Furthermore, at this time we do not know all of the genes linked to AMD. Hence, genetic testing in the area of AMD is only a risk indicator and cannot predict “without a shadow of a doubt,” which patients will and which will not develop the disease. However, this test provides a genetic profile screening to help identify those at risk as well as aids in tailoring a distinct management approach for those with the disease. With various researches devoted to treatment options for AMD, genetic testing in the area of AMD is at the frontier of providing crucial information.
REFERENCES
1. Swaroop, Branham KE, Chen W, Abecasis G. Genetic susceptibility to age-related macular degeneration: a paradigm for dissecting complex disease traits. Hum Mol Genet 2007; 16: 174-82.
2. Klein ML, Mauldin WM, Stoumbos VD. Heredity and age-related macular degeneration. Observations in monozygotic twins. Arch Ophthalmol. 1994; 112: 932-7.
3. Meyers SM, Greene T, Gutman FA. A twin study of age-related macular degeneration. Am J Ophthalmol. 1995; 120: 757-66.
4. Heiba IM, Elston RC, Klein BE, et al. Sibling correlations and segregation analysis of age-related maculopathy: The Beaver Dam Eye Study. Genet Epidemiol. 1994; 11: 51-67.
5. Klaver CC, Wolfs RC, Assink JJ, et al. Genetic risk of age-related maculopathy. Population-based familial aggregation study. Arch Ophthalmol. 1998; 116: 1646-51.
6. Seddon JM, Ajani UA, Mitchell BD. Familial aggregation of age-related maculopathy. Am J Ophthalmol. 1997; 123: 199-206.
7. Klein RJ, Zeiss C, Chew EY, et al. Complement Factor H Polymorphism in Age-Related Macular Degeneration. Science 2005; 308: 385-389.
8. Seddon JM, Reynolds R, Maller J, Fagerness JA, Daly MJ, Rosner B. Prediction model for prevalence and incidence of advanced age-related macular degeneration based on genetic, demographic, and environmental variables. Invest Ophthalmol Vis Sci 2009; 50 (65): 2044-53.
9. www.macularisk.com/en/physicians/order.html (accessed Dec. 14th , 2010)
Monday, December 27, 2010
Zinc and Macular Degeneration
By: Admin
Are you someone who has realized that they are suffering from age related macular degeneration?
Our sense of sight is something that is incredibly important to us, and the idea of having it threatened can be terrifying. The issue is that age related macular degeneration, often abbreviated to AMD is relatively common and after the age sixty, there is a thirty percent chance that this disorder can be developed and it is highly recommended that you use a antioxidant supplement as treatment/ therapy for macular degeneration.
The more research that you do into this condition and into the things that might have a hand in causing it, the more likely it is that you are going to see zinc listed as being something that can help this condition.
Are you someone who has realized that they are suffering from age related macular degeneration?
Our sense of sight is something that is incredibly important to us, and the idea of having it threatened can be terrifying. The issue is that age related macular degeneration, often abbreviated to AMD is relatively common and after the age sixty, there is a thirty percent chance that this disorder can be developed and it is highly recommended that you use a antioxidant supplement as treatment/ therapy for macular degeneration.
The more research that you do into this condition and into the things that might have a hand in causing it, the more likely it is that you are going to see zinc listed as being something that can help this condition.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Melatonin for Macular Degeneration?
By Cathy Wong, Alternative Medicine Guide
Melatonin may help treat age-related macular degeneration, according to a recent report. A leading cause of blindness in the United States, age-related macular degeneration develops when certain cells in the retina deteriorate and gradually destroy your central vision.
A hormone with antioxidant effects, melatonin may help stop shortening of telomeres (chromosomal structures that become shorter over time due to factors like aging, inflammation, and damage caused by free radicals). By preventing telomere-shortening in the cells of the retina, the report suggests, melatonin may help preserve eyesight and slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration.
While melatonin shows promise as a natural remedy for age-related macular degeneration, it's too soon to recommend melatonin supplements for this condition. For help in protecting your eyesight as you age, wear UV-protective lenses when outdoors in the daylight and consider upping your intake of foods rich in lutein (such as leafy green vegetables, green beans, and mango).
As always please check with your doctor before starting/ or changing any medications or supplements.
Melatonin may help treat age-related macular degeneration, according to a recent report. A leading cause of blindness in the United States, age-related macular degeneration develops when certain cells in the retina deteriorate and gradually destroy your central vision.
A hormone with antioxidant effects, melatonin may help stop shortening of telomeres (chromosomal structures that become shorter over time due to factors like aging, inflammation, and damage caused by free radicals). By preventing telomere-shortening in the cells of the retina, the report suggests, melatonin may help preserve eyesight and slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration.
While melatonin shows promise as a natural remedy for age-related macular degeneration, it's too soon to recommend melatonin supplements for this condition. For help in protecting your eyesight as you age, wear UV-protective lenses when outdoors in the daylight and consider upping your intake of foods rich in lutein (such as leafy green vegetables, green beans, and mango).
As always please check with your doctor before starting/ or changing any medications or supplements.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Acceleron's ACE-041 Demonstrates Clinical Efficacy
By Acceleron
CAMBRIDGE, Mass – November 19, 2010 – Acceleron Pharma, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company developing novel protein therapeutics that regulate the growth and development of tissues and cells, including muscle, bone, red blood cells, and vasculature, today announced the presentation of interim results from the first-in-human clinical study of ACE-041 in patients with advanced cancer at the 22nd EORTC-NCI-AACR Symposium on Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics in Berlin, Germany. The presentation was given by Professor Sunil Sharma, the Jon and Karen Huntsman Presidential Professor of Cancer Research at the Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.
“It has been very encouraging to see so many signals of efficacy in this trial, in particular because these are end-stage cancer patients,” said Dr. Sunil Sharma. “It is also important to note that while we have demonstrated significant activity with ACE-041 monotherapy in this study, we might expect to see even more efficacy in future studies with ACE-041 used in combination with other therapies.”
“The clinical activity and safety profile of ACE-041 confirms our understanding that the ALK1 pathway plays a fundamental and distinct role compared to the VEGF-axis in tumor angiogenesis,” said Dr. Matthew Sherman, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at Acceleron Pharma. “This has significant implications because nearly all patients treated with VEGF inhibitors eventually either fail therapy or develop resistance to these drugs. There is a tremendous need for novel therapies that go beyond VEGF to target the tumor blood supply.”
In a phase 1, first-in-human clinical study, patients with advanced-stage tumors were treated with multiple ascending doses of ACE-041, to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of ACE-041. This study also explored antitumor activity of ACE-041.
Summary of interim findings presented:
· ACE-041 subcutaneously (SC) injected once every three weeks (q3w) is generally well-tolerated · Common side effects include mild or moderate peripheral edema, fatigue, nausea, headache, anorexia, and anemia. A single case of Grade 3 congestive heart failure was reported · Toxicities commonly associated with VEGF inhibition (hypertension, proteinuria, or bleeding) have not been observed · ACE-041 pharmacokinetics support dosing every 3 weeks · One patient with refractory head and neck cancer achieved a partial response and three patients had prolonged disease stabilization · Rapid reduction in tumor metabolic activity observed in several patients, measured by FDG-PET imaging · An expanded cohort study is ongoing at the dose level intended for Phase 2 studies,
ACE-041 is being developed for the treatment of advanced cancer and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
About ACE-041
ACE-041 is a recombinant receptor fusion protein that inhibits angiogenesis by preventing BMP9 and BMP10, members of the TGFβ protein superfamily, from interacting with activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1), a receptor that is found on proliferating endothelial cells. ACE-041 inhibits ALK1 signaling, which is required for the development of mature, functional capillary networks. In animal studies, treatment with ACE-041 inhibits tumor angiogenesis and growth and ocular neoangiogenesis. In a clinical study of patients with advanced, refractory solid tumors, treatment with ACE-041 was generally well-tolerated and antitumor activity was observed, resulting in tumor shrinkage and stabilization of disease. ACE-041 is being developed for the treatment of advanced-stage cancer and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
About Acceleron Pharma
Acceleron is a privately-held biopharmaceutical company committed to discover, develop, manufacture and commercialize novel biotherapeutics that modulate the growth of red blood cells, bone, muscle, fat and the vasculature to treat musculoskeletal, metabolic and cancer-related diseases. Acceleron’s scientific approach takes advantage of its unique insight into the regenerative powers of the TGF-β superfamily of proteins. Acceleron utilizes proven biotherapeutic technologies and capitalizes on the company’s internal GMP manufacturing capability to rapidly and efficiently advance its therapeutic programs. The investors in Acceleron include Advanced Technology Ventures, Alkermes, Bessemer Ventures, Celgene, Flagship Ventures, MPM BioEquities, OrbiMed Advisors, Polaris Ventures, QVT Financial, Sutter Hill Ventures and Venrock. For further information on Acceleron Pharma.
CAMBRIDGE, Mass – November 19, 2010 – Acceleron Pharma, Inc., a biopharmaceutical company developing novel protein therapeutics that regulate the growth and development of tissues and cells, including muscle, bone, red blood cells, and vasculature, today announced the presentation of interim results from the first-in-human clinical study of ACE-041 in patients with advanced cancer at the 22nd EORTC-NCI-AACR Symposium on Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics in Berlin, Germany. The presentation was given by Professor Sunil Sharma, the Jon and Karen Huntsman Presidential Professor of Cancer Research at the Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah.
“It has been very encouraging to see so many signals of efficacy in this trial, in particular because these are end-stage cancer patients,” said Dr. Sunil Sharma. “It is also important to note that while we have demonstrated significant activity with ACE-041 monotherapy in this study, we might expect to see even more efficacy in future studies with ACE-041 used in combination with other therapies.”
“The clinical activity and safety profile of ACE-041 confirms our understanding that the ALK1 pathway plays a fundamental and distinct role compared to the VEGF-axis in tumor angiogenesis,” said Dr. Matthew Sherman, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at Acceleron Pharma. “This has significant implications because nearly all patients treated with VEGF inhibitors eventually either fail therapy or develop resistance to these drugs. There is a tremendous need for novel therapies that go beyond VEGF to target the tumor blood supply.”
In a phase 1, first-in-human clinical study, patients with advanced-stage tumors were treated with multiple ascending doses of ACE-041, to evaluate the safety and pharmacokinetics of ACE-041. This study also explored antitumor activity of ACE-041.
Summary of interim findings presented:
· ACE-041 subcutaneously (SC) injected once every three weeks (q3w) is generally well-tolerated · Common side effects include mild or moderate peripheral edema, fatigue, nausea, headache, anorexia, and anemia. A single case of Grade 3 congestive heart failure was reported · Toxicities commonly associated with VEGF inhibition (hypertension, proteinuria, or bleeding) have not been observed · ACE-041 pharmacokinetics support dosing every 3 weeks · One patient with refractory head and neck cancer achieved a partial response and three patients had prolonged disease stabilization · Rapid reduction in tumor metabolic activity observed in several patients, measured by FDG-PET imaging · An expanded cohort study is ongoing at the dose level intended for Phase 2 studies,
ACE-041 is being developed for the treatment of advanced cancer and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
About ACE-041
ACE-041 is a recombinant receptor fusion protein that inhibits angiogenesis by preventing BMP9 and BMP10, members of the TGFβ protein superfamily, from interacting with activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK1), a receptor that is found on proliferating endothelial cells. ACE-041 inhibits ALK1 signaling, which is required for the development of mature, functional capillary networks. In animal studies, treatment with ACE-041 inhibits tumor angiogenesis and growth and ocular neoangiogenesis. In a clinical study of patients with advanced, refractory solid tumors, treatment with ACE-041 was generally well-tolerated and antitumor activity was observed, resulting in tumor shrinkage and stabilization of disease. ACE-041 is being developed for the treatment of advanced-stage cancer and age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
About Acceleron Pharma
Acceleron is a privately-held biopharmaceutical company committed to discover, develop, manufacture and commercialize novel biotherapeutics that modulate the growth of red blood cells, bone, muscle, fat and the vasculature to treat musculoskeletal, metabolic and cancer-related diseases. Acceleron’s scientific approach takes advantage of its unique insight into the regenerative powers of the TGF-β superfamily of proteins. Acceleron utilizes proven biotherapeutic technologies and capitalizes on the company’s internal GMP manufacturing capability to rapidly and efficiently advance its therapeutic programs. The investors in Acceleron include Advanced Technology Ventures, Alkermes, Bessemer Ventures, Celgene, Flagship Ventures, MPM BioEquities, OrbiMed Advisors, Polaris Ventures, QVT Financial, Sutter Hill Ventures and Venrock. For further information on Acceleron Pharma.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Retinal Degeneration Can be Prevented with Nanotechnology Gene Therapy
Friday, 01 October 2010
Researchers from Tufts University published results from a study showing vision-saving gene therapy to the eyes can be delivered via nanotechnology. A protein called Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurtrophic Factor (GDNF) can protect the eyes from diseases of the retina, such as and retinitis pigmentosa.
The previous method for delivering genetic material with a virus had several problems and side effects. Although the study is in its infancy, and the results are temporary, mice injected with the GDNF carrying nanoparticle had a 3.9 to 7.7-fold reduction in damage to the retina. Seven days after treatment, the GDNF-nanoparticle treated mice had up to 39% better eyesight than mice in the control group.
Two weeks after the treatment, GDNF-nanoparticle-injected mice had nuclear layers of the retina that were almost 24 to over 39 percent thicker than control mice. However, after 14 days, these advantages seem to have vanished. According to Dr. Brett Katzen, "The idea of using gene therapy to help cure - or at least improve - the eyesight of patients with macular degeneration should be exciting to eye doctors everywhere. This is a great first step." The research shows an incredible potential for nanotechnology to develop an effective carrier for delivering gene therapy.
This therapy can then lead to a new generation of treatments for retinal diseases. Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in Americans over the age of 65.
Researchers from Tufts University published results from a study showing vision-saving gene therapy to the eyes can be delivered via nanotechnology. A protein called Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurtrophic Factor (GDNF) can protect the eyes from diseases of the retina, such as and retinitis pigmentosa.
The previous method for delivering genetic material with a virus had several problems and side effects. Although the study is in its infancy, and the results are temporary, mice injected with the GDNF carrying nanoparticle had a 3.9 to 7.7-fold reduction in damage to the retina. Seven days after treatment, the GDNF-nanoparticle treated mice had up to 39% better eyesight than mice in the control group.
Two weeks after the treatment, GDNF-nanoparticle-injected mice had nuclear layers of the retina that were almost 24 to over 39 percent thicker than control mice. However, after 14 days, these advantages seem to have vanished. According to Dr. Brett Katzen, "The idea of using gene therapy to help cure - or at least improve - the eyesight of patients with macular degeneration should be exciting to eye doctors everywhere. This is a great first step." The research shows an incredible potential for nanotechnology to develop an effective carrier for delivering gene therapy.
This therapy can then lead to a new generation of treatments for retinal diseases. Age-related macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in Americans over the age of 65.
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
FDA grants pSivida, Alimera expedited review for macular degeneration therapy
FDA grants pSivida, Alimera expedited review for macular degeneration therapy
August 31, 2010 by MassDevice staff
pSivida Corp. and Alimera Sciences win priority review status for their Iluvien drug/device combination, designed to treat diabetic macular degeneration.
PSDV, ALIM logos
The Food & Drug Administration put pSivida Corp. (NSDQ:PSDV) and Alimera Sciences Inc. (NSDQ:ALIM) on the fast track, granting an expedited review for their drug/device combination designed to treat diabetic macular edema.
Watertown, Mass.-based pSivida and Alpharetta, Ga.-based Alimera filed a new drug application with the FDA in June for Iluvien, a sustained release drug delivery system that delivers flucocinolone acetonide, a steroid, for the treatment of DME.
The federal watchdog agency granted priority review status to the application, moving the goal for finishing the review from 10 months back to six months.
That means a response could drop during the fourth quarter, pSivida president and CEO Dr. Paul Ashton said in prepared remarks, adding that FDA approval would trigger a $25 million milestone payment from Alimera.
The milestone payment wouldn't be the first time Alimera ponied up for pSivida. Its $72 million IPO in April triggered the repayment of a $15 million loan and $225,000 in interest. The companies are seeking European approval for Iluvien. If it makes it to market, pSivida will collect 20 percent of the net profits.
The FDA has already cleared a pair of pSivida products: Retisert, for the treatment of posterior uveitis, and Vitrasert for the treatment of AIDS-related cytomegalovirus retinitis. Both are licensed to Bausch & Lomb Inc. The company is also developing other ophthalmic products with Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE), its largest shareholder, and has products of its own in the pipeline outside of ophthalmology, according to a press release.
*
August 31, 2010 by MassDevice staff
pSivida Corp. and Alimera Sciences win priority review status for their Iluvien drug/device combination, designed to treat diabetic macular degeneration.
PSDV, ALIM logos
The Food & Drug Administration put pSivida Corp. (NSDQ:PSDV) and Alimera Sciences Inc. (NSDQ:ALIM) on the fast track, granting an expedited review for their drug/device combination designed to treat diabetic macular edema.
Watertown, Mass.-based pSivida and Alpharetta, Ga.-based Alimera filed a new drug application with the FDA in June for Iluvien, a sustained release drug delivery system that delivers flucocinolone acetonide, a steroid, for the treatment of DME.
The federal watchdog agency granted priority review status to the application, moving the goal for finishing the review from 10 months back to six months.
That means a response could drop during the fourth quarter, pSivida president and CEO Dr. Paul Ashton said in prepared remarks, adding that FDA approval would trigger a $25 million milestone payment from Alimera.
The milestone payment wouldn't be the first time Alimera ponied up for pSivida. Its $72 million IPO in April triggered the repayment of a $15 million loan and $225,000 in interest. The companies are seeking European approval for Iluvien. If it makes it to market, pSivida will collect 20 percent of the net profits.
The FDA has already cleared a pair of pSivida products: Retisert, for the treatment of posterior uveitis, and Vitrasert for the treatment of AIDS-related cytomegalovirus retinitis. Both are licensed to Bausch & Lomb Inc. The company is also developing other ophthalmic products with Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE), its largest shareholder, and has products of its own in the pipeline outside of ophthalmology, according to a press release.
*
Monday, August 23, 2010
Gene therapy can correct inherited retinal eye diseases
Researchers at the American Academy of Ophthalmology have found that Leber’s congenital Amaurosis (LCA), a very severe form of retinal disease
can be improved with the help of gene therapy.
Not only that, but the improvements were also found to be stable for two years.
Gene Therapy Can Correct Retinal Eye Diseases: LCA can be diagnosed in children at a very early age, sometimes even at infancy.
The main symptoms
of LCA are severity in vision loss and nystagmus(involuntary eye movement). By the time a person reaches his thirties or forties LCA develops into blindness.
* The impact of gene therapy could mainly be observed in children. The visual acuity and light sensitivity was tremendous in these children.
* Not only in children, researchers were also able to observe improvement in adults.
The Research and Theory: LCA is due to the mutations caused in any of the 13 genes in our body. Researchers were studying a Type 2 LCA which is due to mutation in the RPE65 gene.
* The doctors injected a normal functioning RPE65 gene which was joined with a virus into the sub-retinal space upon performing a surgery.
* The altered virus places the normally functioning RPE65 gene into the diseased cells and modifies the defective enzymes.
* After 2 weeks from the date of surgery, doctors observed that the patients reported an improvement in vision even in dim light.
* There were a few patients who also said that their visual acuity improved.
* A few even experienced massive improvement in nystagmus.
* The most encouraging result was that none of the patients experienced adverse effects.
Gene therapy does not improve sight on a permanent basis. But, gene therapy can correct inherited retinal eye diseases and help people restore sight.
People who undergo gene therapy need not be classified as blind any more. Researchers are trying hard to implement this technique in a safer way in younger children.
can be improved with the help of gene therapy.
Not only that, but the improvements were also found to be stable for two years.
Gene Therapy Can Correct Retinal Eye Diseases: LCA can be diagnosed in children at a very early age, sometimes even at infancy.
The main symptoms
of LCA are severity in vision loss and nystagmus(involuntary eye movement). By the time a person reaches his thirties or forties LCA develops into blindness.
* The impact of gene therapy could mainly be observed in children. The visual acuity and light sensitivity was tremendous in these children.
* Not only in children, researchers were also able to observe improvement in adults.
The Research and Theory: LCA is due to the mutations caused in any of the 13 genes in our body. Researchers were studying a Type 2 LCA which is due to mutation in the RPE65 gene.
* The doctors injected a normal functioning RPE65 gene which was joined with a virus into the sub-retinal space upon performing a surgery.
* The altered virus places the normally functioning RPE65 gene into the diseased cells and modifies the defective enzymes.
* After 2 weeks from the date of surgery, doctors observed that the patients reported an improvement in vision even in dim light.
* There were a few patients who also said that their visual acuity improved.
* A few even experienced massive improvement in nystagmus.
* The most encouraging result was that none of the patients experienced adverse effects.
Gene therapy does not improve sight on a permanent basis. But, gene therapy can correct inherited retinal eye diseases and help people restore sight.
People who undergo gene therapy need not be classified as blind any more. Researchers are trying hard to implement this technique in a safer way in younger children.
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Medicine from Moss to produce human protien
Diabetics use human insulin produced in bacteria in order to treat their metabolic disorder. Many other genetically engineered proteins are also on the advance. They are being used for diagnosis as well as for therapy.
Whereas insulin used to be extracted from slaughterhouse waste, today it is produced genetically in bacteria. However, more complex proteins have to be synthesised in more complex organisms. This takes place mostly in bioreactors using animal cell lines. Biotechnologist Prof. Ralf Reski from Freiburg, Germany, has developed the moss Physcomitrella patens into a safe and inexpensive alternative supplier of medicine.
His group has now, under Dr. Eva Decker, for the first time succeeded in producing a human protein in a moss bioreactor, which has been assigned the "orphan drug" status by the respective EU authorities. This means the development and approval of such medication receive particular support from the authorities. In many people the amount of this protein decreases with old age - with severe consequences. Eva Decker explains: "With the complement factor H we have produced a protein in moss that otherwise occurs only in blood and is important for the immune system. Not enough of this protein in older people is the main cause of blindness for 50 million people worldwide. This age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a problem, particularly in industrialised countries."
Biochemists from the Freiburg Centre for Systems Biology under Dr. Andreas Schlosser were able to show with the help of high-performance mass spectrometers that the human factor H engineered into and produced by moss was a complete protein. Infection biologists headed by Prof. Peter F. Zipfel from the Hans-Knöll-Institute in Jena, Germany, were able to prove in biological assays that factor H from moss is fully functional. "Currently factor H is not available in pharmacies, so treatment for AMD with this protein is not possible. To date recombinant production of factor H was barely feasible. I am convinced that for the first time the moss bioreactor is a promising option", says Peter Zipfel.
This work was supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), the Freiburg Initiative for Systems Biology and the Cluster of Excellence BIOSS.
Dr. Annette Büttner-Mainik, first author of the publication, was a Kekulé scholarship holder from the endowment fund of the German Chemical Industry (FCI).
The title of the original publication is: Annette Büttner-Mainik, Juliana Parsons, Hanna Jérôme, Andrea Hartmann, Stephanie Lamer, Andreas Schaaf, Andreas Schlosser, Peter F. Zipfel, Ralf Reski, Eva L. Decker (2010): Production of biologically active recombinant human Factor H in Physcomitrella. Plant Biotechnology Journal, doi: 10.1111/j.1467-7652.2010.00552.x.
"It will take a while before medication produced in moss is available in pharmacies", says Ralf Reski, member of the Innovation Think Tank of the governor of Baden-Wuerttemberg. "We are further optimising the moss bioreactor using methods from Systems Biology and Synthetic Biology. However, the implementation of clinical studies and the setting up of industrial production is long-winded and expensive; this is the task of industry and not of university research."
Whereas insulin used to be extracted from slaughterhouse waste, today it is produced genetically in bacteria. However, more complex proteins have to be synthesised in more complex organisms. This takes place mostly in bioreactors using animal cell lines. Biotechnologist Prof. Ralf Reski from Freiburg, Germany, has developed the moss Physcomitrella patens into a safe and inexpensive alternative supplier of medicine.
His group has now, under Dr. Eva Decker, for the first time succeeded in producing a human protein in a moss bioreactor, which has been assigned the "orphan drug" status by the respective EU authorities. This means the development and approval of such medication receive particular support from the authorities. In many people the amount of this protein decreases with old age - with severe consequences. Eva Decker explains: "With the complement factor H we have produced a protein in moss that otherwise occurs only in blood and is important for the immune system. Not enough of this protein in older people is the main cause of blindness for 50 million people worldwide. This age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a problem, particularly in industrialised countries."
Biochemists from the Freiburg Centre for Systems Biology under Dr. Andreas Schlosser were able to show with the help of high-performance mass spectrometers that the human factor H engineered into and produced by moss was a complete protein. Infection biologists headed by Prof. Peter F. Zipfel from the Hans-Knöll-Institute in Jena, Germany, were able to prove in biological assays that factor H from moss is fully functional. "Currently factor H is not available in pharmacies, so treatment for AMD with this protein is not possible. To date recombinant production of factor H was barely feasible. I am convinced that for the first time the moss bioreactor is a promising option", says Peter Zipfel.
This work was supported by the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF), the Freiburg Initiative for Systems Biology and the Cluster of Excellence BIOSS.
Dr. Annette Büttner-Mainik, first author of the publication, was a Kekulé scholarship holder from the endowment fund of the German Chemical Industry (FCI).
The title of the original publication is: Annette Büttner-Mainik, Juliana Parsons, Hanna Jérôme, Andrea Hartmann, Stephanie Lamer, Andreas Schaaf, Andreas Schlosser, Peter F. Zipfel, Ralf Reski, Eva L. Decker (2010): Production of biologically active recombinant human Factor H in Physcomitrella. Plant Biotechnology Journal, doi: 10.1111/j.1467-7652.2010.00552.x.
"It will take a while before medication produced in moss is available in pharmacies", says Ralf Reski, member of the Innovation Think Tank of the governor of Baden-Wuerttemberg. "We are further optimising the moss bioreactor using methods from Systems Biology and Synthetic Biology. However, the implementation of clinical studies and the setting up of industrial production is long-winded and expensive; this is the task of industry and not of university research."
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Stem cell Therapy to Benefit Blind
Submitted by Jayden Roberts on Tue, 06/29/2010
Italian researchers have reported that about 12 people have regained their sight in a successful experiment conducted with some partly blind and severe eye damage suffering people. This was revealed in a study published online in the New England Journal of Medicine.
This is a remarkable success that will encourage the cell-therapy, which is done by transplanting cells from one’s own body to other parts. It has been claimed that the treatment has proved winning in 82 of 107 eyes. Also, it was partially complete in 14 others eyes. The benefits of the treatment are expected to last till 10 years after the process.
It is also noticeable that one man, who had been blind for more than five decades, have also completely restored his visual capacity. Appreciating the success, Ophthalmologist Ivan Schwab of the University of California praised and congratulated the team.
If the stem cell transplants become popular and are implemented even more, they can also prove helpful for the people who are affected by chemical burns on their corneas from heavy-duty cleansers and other chemicals. This will be a great help for people who have to suffer eyesight loss due to such mishaps.
However, the stem cell approach is not capable to treat optic nerve or macular degeneration, which is caused due to the damage in retina, as the treatment requires a few healthy tissues that can be transplanted.
Italian researchers have reported that about 12 people have regained their sight in a successful experiment conducted with some partly blind and severe eye damage suffering people. This was revealed in a study published online in the New England Journal of Medicine.
This is a remarkable success that will encourage the cell-therapy, which is done by transplanting cells from one’s own body to other parts. It has been claimed that the treatment has proved winning in 82 of 107 eyes. Also, it was partially complete in 14 others eyes. The benefits of the treatment are expected to last till 10 years after the process.
It is also noticeable that one man, who had been blind for more than five decades, have also completely restored his visual capacity. Appreciating the success, Ophthalmologist Ivan Schwab of the University of California praised and congratulated the team.
If the stem cell transplants become popular and are implemented even more, they can also prove helpful for the people who are affected by chemical burns on their corneas from heavy-duty cleansers and other chemicals. This will be a great help for people who have to suffer eyesight loss due to such mishaps.
However, the stem cell approach is not capable to treat optic nerve or macular degeneration, which is caused due to the damage in retina, as the treatment requires a few healthy tissues that can be transplanted.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Tufts Medical Center Researchers Create a New Predictive Model for Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Tufts Medical Center Researchers Create a New Predictive Model for Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
BOSTON, April 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Researchers at Tufts Medical Center have created a formula for predicting how likely it is that individuals with certain genetic profiles and lifestyle behaviors will develop advanced Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), a potentially blinding condition that currently affects an estimated two million older Americans and is increasing dramatically as the population ages.
The study, led by Johanna M. Seddon, MD, ScM, Professor of Ophthalmology at Tufts University School of Medicine and Director of the Ophthalmic Epidemiology and Genetics Service at Tufts Medical Center, evaluated six genotypes that either increase or decrease risk for AMD. In addition to age, sex, and education, she also incorporated smoking status and higher body mass index (BMI) which increase risk of AMD, and supplementation with a high-dose formulation of antioxidants and zinc which delays progression of the disease. Using their new algorithm, Dr. Seddon and her colleagues determined that several genotypes plus the lifestyle factors can predict progression to the advanced forms of AMD with a certainty as high as 83%. The paper, "Prediction model for prevalence and incidence of advanced age-related macular degeneration based on genetic, demographic, and environmental variables" was published in the May issue of the journal Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science.
Their research also shows that although AMD has a strong genetic component, healthy behaviors can modify your genetic susceptibility. For example, among individuals with one genotype, the homozygous C3 risk genotype, the likelihood of progression to the advanced form of AMD increased from about three-fold for nonsmokers to nearly 10-fold for smokers.
"Our algorithm could help with the selection of study participants for treatment trials and could one day enable doctors to choose the most efficacious treatment for individual patients," Dr. Seddon said. "It also gives any older person concerned about AMD, or any patient with early stages or a family history of AMD, even more incentive to avoid risk factors such as smoking and excessive weight."
The study included 1,446 individuals from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study who had 6.3 years of follow-up, of which 279 progressed to the advanced stages of AMD.
About Tufts Medical Center
Tufts Medical Center is a not-for-profit, 439-bed academic medical center that is home to both a full-service hospital for adults and Floating Hospital for Children.
BOSTON, April 23 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Researchers at Tufts Medical Center have created a formula for predicting how likely it is that individuals with certain genetic profiles and lifestyle behaviors will develop advanced Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), a potentially blinding condition that currently affects an estimated two million older Americans and is increasing dramatically as the population ages.
The study, led by Johanna M. Seddon, MD, ScM, Professor of Ophthalmology at Tufts University School of Medicine and Director of the Ophthalmic Epidemiology and Genetics Service at Tufts Medical Center, evaluated six genotypes that either increase or decrease risk for AMD. In addition to age, sex, and education, she also incorporated smoking status and higher body mass index (BMI) which increase risk of AMD, and supplementation with a high-dose formulation of antioxidants and zinc which delays progression of the disease. Using their new algorithm, Dr. Seddon and her colleagues determined that several genotypes plus the lifestyle factors can predict progression to the advanced forms of AMD with a certainty as high as 83%. The paper, "Prediction model for prevalence and incidence of advanced age-related macular degeneration based on genetic, demographic, and environmental variables" was published in the May issue of the journal Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science.
Their research also shows that although AMD has a strong genetic component, healthy behaviors can modify your genetic susceptibility. For example, among individuals with one genotype, the homozygous C3 risk genotype, the likelihood of progression to the advanced form of AMD increased from about three-fold for nonsmokers to nearly 10-fold for smokers.
"Our algorithm could help with the selection of study participants for treatment trials and could one day enable doctors to choose the most efficacious treatment for individual patients," Dr. Seddon said. "It also gives any older person concerned about AMD, or any patient with early stages or a family history of AMD, even more incentive to avoid risk factors such as smoking and excessive weight."
The study included 1,446 individuals from the Age-Related Eye Disease Study who had 6.3 years of follow-up, of which 279 progressed to the advanced stages of AMD.
About Tufts Medical Center
Tufts Medical Center is a not-for-profit, 439-bed academic medical center that is home to both a full-service hospital for adults and Floating Hospital for Children.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Othera's Eye Drop to Cure ARMD Seems Promising But Too Early to Tell
Othera's Eye Drop to Cure ARMD Seems Promising But Too Early to Tell
April 16, 2009
Implications
An eye drop that stabilizes the most common form of AMD is encouraging. The ability for an eye drop to be effective is curious. Historically it has been difficult to get any medication effectively delivered to the retina via topical medications. The development of geographic atrophy is very, very slow and it is surprising that a positive trend can be noted in such a short time.
Analysis
Macular degeneration is on the rise. It is estimated that the prevalence of the disease will double in the next 40 years. Macular degeneration is often broken down into "wet" and "dry." The exudative, or wet form, involves choroidal neovascularization and is treated with anti-VEGF treatments such as Avastin, Macugen or Lucentis.
The dry form is the more common form affecting about 90% of all those afflicted with macular degeneration. The most severe of these is geographic atrophy (GA). It is a slowly progressive disease causing damage and loss of the vital underlying RPE cells. It usually takes years for patients to notice a change to their vision.
The news release describes a treatment that may be potentially helpful to most patients that are afflicted with macular degeneration. A simple eye drop to treat this disease is very intriguing. Presently, most treatments for wet macular degeneration involve direct intraocular injection of a substance as topical therapy has traditionally yielded poor drug levels reaching the retinal surface.
Clinically, it has been my experience that the disease progresses very slowly and to notice a change, for better or worse, in such a short time of two years is surprising.
Randall V. Wong, M.D.
April 16, 2009
Implications
An eye drop that stabilizes the most common form of AMD is encouraging. The ability for an eye drop to be effective is curious. Historically it has been difficult to get any medication effectively delivered to the retina via topical medications. The development of geographic atrophy is very, very slow and it is surprising that a positive trend can be noted in such a short time.
Analysis
Macular degeneration is on the rise. It is estimated that the prevalence of the disease will double in the next 40 years. Macular degeneration is often broken down into "wet" and "dry." The exudative, or wet form, involves choroidal neovascularization and is treated with anti-VEGF treatments such as Avastin, Macugen or Lucentis.
The dry form is the more common form affecting about 90% of all those afflicted with macular degeneration. The most severe of these is geographic atrophy (GA). It is a slowly progressive disease causing damage and loss of the vital underlying RPE cells. It usually takes years for patients to notice a change to their vision.
The news release describes a treatment that may be potentially helpful to most patients that are afflicted with macular degeneration. A simple eye drop to treat this disease is very intriguing. Presently, most treatments for wet macular degeneration involve direct intraocular injection of a substance as topical therapy has traditionally yielded poor drug levels reaching the retinal surface.
Clinically, it has been my experience that the disease progresses very slowly and to notice a change, for better or worse, in such a short time of two years is surprising.
Randall V. Wong, M.D.
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