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NEI Research News

Thanks to the work of NEI scientists and grantees, we’re constantly learning new information about the causes and treatment of vision disorders. Get the latest updates about their work — along with other news about NEI.

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Human iPSC-derived retinal pigment epithelium (RPE).

UC Irvine study shows similarities and differences in human and insect vision formation

Researchers have discovered profound similarities and surprising differences between humans and insects in the production of the critical light-absorbing molecule of the retina, 11-cis-retinal, also known as the “visual chromophore.”
Glaucoma and the optic nerve

Researchers identify genes and cell types that may have causal role in primary open-angle glaucoma formation

In a new study, researchers conducted a comprehensive study that uncovered key genes, biological processes and cell types that may affect the pathogenesis of primary open angle glaucoma, in intraocular pressure-dependent and independent manners.
fundus photo showing diabetic retinopathy

Some ethnic groups at higher risk for retinal damage from diabetes

Researchers at Indiana University School of Optometry found that individuals are at different risks for retinal damage from diabetes, with certain ethnic groups and males being at a greater risk.

University of Houston expert warns red light myopia therapy can injure retina

A University of Houston optometry researcher is warning against the use of low-level red light (LLRL) therapy as a method to control myopia, or nearsightedness, especially in children.
fMRI of dog brain showing bright activation in the visual cortex.

Using fMRI, new vision study finds promising model for restoring cone function

Researchers have found that in dogs, fMRI can detect brain responses to daylight vision for black and white information as well as color information, and identify the area of the visual cortex that responds to stimulation of a cone-rich retinal region.

Retinal photoreceptors use dual pathways to tell brain ‘I’ve seen the light!’

Neuroscientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have shown that intrinsically-photosensitive retinal ganglion cells use two different pathways at the same time to transmit electrical “vision” signals to the brain.
Scientist examines scientific images on a screen in a dark room.

Retinal imaging and genetics data used to predict future disease risk

Researchers combined retinal imaging, genetics and big data to estimate how likely a person is to develop eye and systemic diseases in the future.
Woman reading eye chart

Mega-analysis identifies gene variants associated with glaucoma in people of African ancestry

A new analysis focusing specifically on people of African ancestry identified three gene variants that may be contributing to this population’s susceptibility to developing and being blinded by glaucoma.

Knowing what dogs like to watch could help veterinarians assess their vision

University of Wisconsin-Madison study to support development of more sensitive ways to assess canine vision discovers what dogs most like to watch.
Pipet

New technique enhances quality control of lab-grown cells for AMD treatment

NEI researchers improved a crucial step in the production of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), a tissue they grow in the lab from patient blood cells and are testing in a clinical trial as treatment for AMD.