News, Links and Commentary
Monday, June 13, 2005
Non-Viral Gene Therapy Technology Showing Favourable Results
Non-viral forms of gene therapy, such as Copernicus Therapeutics' non-viral nucleic acid nanoparticle technology, may be part of future treatments for neurological disorders such as retinitis pigmentosa and macular degeneration. Researchers from the University of Kentucky and the University of Oklahoma announced trial results at the American Society of Gene Therapy Meeting in St Louis, Missouri, USA earlier this month.
(0) comments |
"We are most enthusiastic about these findings," said Dr. Mark J. Cooper, Sr. Vice President of Science and Medical Affairs at Copernicus. "Gene transfer in the brain of animals was highly efficient and non-toxic, suggesting multiple treatment options for serious neurological disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. In the eye, a remarkable 99% gene transfer efficiency in the retina was observed. Treatment of important causes of blindness, including retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and various viral infections may be possible using our nanoparticle technology."
'Copernicus Announces Efficient DNA Drug Delivery for Brain & Eye Diseases' (Copernicus Therapeutics, Inc. media release at PharmaLive.com, 7 June 2005).
Saturday, June 11, 2005
Funding Sought For Further Testing of European Implant
IIP-Technologies is seeking funding for further testing of their artificial vision software and chip, according to E-Health Insider.
(0) comments |
In a prototype study across four clinics in Germany and Austria last year, 20 people suffering from retinitis pigmentosa, a genetic condition that causes tunnel vision and eventually complete blindness, had the software implant in their eye. All but one said that their visual perception had improved.
A spokesperson for IIP Technologies told E-Health Insider that although the trial was not intended to give functional vision for the volunteers, the subjects saw spots of lights when the chip stimulated their retinas. The trial had initially been carried out to check the levels of electrical intensity needed to stimulate the optic nerve.
'Chip in the eye can improve sight' in E-Health Insider (10 June 2005)
Adelaide Research Into Flies Eyes Adds to Knowledge of Artificial Vision
Flies eyes are helping researchers at the University of Adelaide's School of Molecular and Biomedical Science develop bionic eyes for use in anti-collision detectors. The research may also have applications for artificial vision in humans, although this possibility is a long way off. Read more in 'Eye-tech future could be reliant on the humble fly' (Sydney Morning Herald, 7 June 2005).
(0) comments |
Sunday, June 05, 2005
VIP Consumer Web Site
The VIP Consumer site offers reviews of products and services for people who have vision impairments and gives you the chance to ask questions and contribute through online discussion boards. If you're in the UK, check out The VIP Consumer UK.
(0) comments |
