Advances in Retina Research
Researchers have successfully brought donor retinas back to life for hours after death, suggesting a new method of preserving human retinas for research and transplant. The technology could reduce the use of animals for vision research and take a big step to one day transplanting human retinas.
New Dry Eye Treatments in the Pipeline
Auven Therapeutics recently announced results from its Phase 2b/3 clinical trial evaluating the safety and efficacy of Seciera, a formulation of cyclosporine, for the treatment of dry eye disease. The study shows a significant increase in tear production and a reduction in signs of ocular surface inflammation compared to placebo-vehicle. Depending on upcoming studies, the company plans to submit a New Drug Application for Seciera in early 2017.
The Benefits of Breast Milk
The results of a recent meta-analysis found the risk of any-stage ROP appeared to drop by about 75% for babies exclusively fed breast milk. The risk of severe ROP seemed to be reduced by 90%. The studies indicate that breastfeeding in any amount appeared to reduce the risk of ROP, and the more breast milk, the better.
The Accreditation Council on Optometric Education recenlty granted the University of Pikeville-Kentucky College of Optometry the pre-accreditation classification of preliminary approval. “With no other colleges of optometry in Kentucky, West Virginia, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina or Georgia, Kentucky College of Optometry will be the most accessible college of optometry in the Southeastern portion of the country,” the university said in a press release.
