Abstract:
The present invention addresses the treatment of age-related macular degeneration using regulation of pathogenic mechanisms similar to atherosclerosis. In further specific embodiments, reverse cholesterol transport components, such as transporters and HDL fractions, are utilized as diagnostic and therapeutic targets for age-related macular degeneration. In a specific embodiment, the lipid content of the retinal pigment epithelium, and/or Bruch's membrane is reduced.
Abstract:
The present invention addresses the treatment of age-related macular degeneration using regulation of pathogenic mechanisms similar to atherosclerosis. In further specific embodiments, compositions that increase reverse cholesterol transport are utilized as therapeutic targets for age-related macular degeneration. In a specific embodiment, the lipid content of the retinal pigment epithelium, and/or Bruch's membrane is reduced by delivering Apolipoprotein A1, particularly a mimetic peptide.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to improving, at least in part, a deficiency in dark adaptation for an individual. The therapy for dark adaptation includes local administration of a retinoid, such as a Vitamin A or a derivative thereof, such that deleterious side effects seen with systemic administration are avoided.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to altering the physical and/or chemical properties of at least part of at least one tissue in the eye. In a specific embodiment, it relates to the treatment and/or prevention of myopia. An activating energy source is utilized to photopolymerize or crosslink molecules in the sclera, thereby increasing the strength of the tissue. The individual is administered a crosslinking reagent or photopolymerizable molecule that becomes associated with the membrane, which is then precisely exposed to an energy source, such as light or ultrasound.
Abstract:
The invention relates to a novel composition for improving the accommodation capability of an intraocular lens (IOL). In one embodiment, the composition can be injected into the capsular bag where it surrounds an implanted IOL anchoring the IOL to the capsular bag. Alternatively, for anterior chamber IOLs, the composition can be injected into the bag behind the lens. The material has a refractive index similar to that of aqueous thereby reducing any potential interference with the implanted IOL. Accommodation is provided by the mixture of the crosslinked composition caused by the flexing of the muscles. The novel composition is particularly useful in enhancing accommodation for adjustable intraocular lenses.
Abstract:
The present invention provides engineered proteins and biomedical products made from the engineered proteins. The biomedical products include lenses useful for ophthalmic purposes.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to methods and pharmaceutical compositions involving the use of bioerodible (biodegradable) polymers to address fundamental needs in ocular surgery including sealants and sealing methods, barriers to cellular adhesion and proliferation, and mechanical barriers. In a particular embodiment, the present invention is also directed to the treatment of intraocular hypotony in an eye by limiting the flow of aqueous from the eye. In a preferred embodiment, application of a polymer, such as to the angle of the eye, limits the flow, thereby increasing the intraocular pressure.
Abstract:
When a natural lens (8) of the eye is removed through known processes such as phacoemulsification, an intraocular lens (12) is needed to restore the focusing power of the eye. The intraocular lens (12) is secured in place through the use of haptics which engage the wall of the capsular bag (14). Once the intraocular lens (12) is in place, the capsular bag (14) is filled with a composition (13) that is curable, providing an anchor for the intraocular lens (12). The composition (13) also helps in the accommodation process.
Abstract:
The present invention addresses the treatment of age-related macular degeneration using regulation of pathogenic mechanisms similar to atherosclerosis. In further specific embodiments, reverse cholesterol transport components, such as transporters and HDL fractions, are utilized as diagnostic and therapeutic targets for age-related macular degeneration. In a specific embodiment, the lipid content of the retinal pigment epithelium, and/or Bruch's membrane is reduced.
Abstract:
The present invention relates to altering the physical and/or chemical properties of at least part of at least one tissue in the eye. In a specific embodiment, it relates to the treatment of any eye disorder, although in particular embodiments the individual has a thickened Bruch's membrane. An activating energy source is utilized to effect a controlled diffusion enhancement and/or degradation of Bruch's membrane that enables improved diffusional transport between the choroid and retina. The individual is administered an inactivated diffusion-enhancing molecule that becomes associated with the membrane, which is then precisely exposed to an activating energy source, such as light or ultrasound.