Fight for Sight funds research into electrical current techniques
The eye research charity is completing a study to see if electrical currents can help restore sight
18 July 2017
Fight for Sight is currently funding 15 studies into age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including one with researchers at the University of York who are testing to see if small electrical currents can stimulate the brain to protect against physical changes as a result of losing sight.
The University of York team, led by Professor Antony Morland, is tracking the shape and size of the changes in the brain to see how it works over time after vision is lost. The study is also testing to find out if these electric currents can work alongside future therapies, like stem cell transplants, to help give sight back effectively.
Michele Acton, chief executive of Fight for Sight, said: “Medical research is vital to stop sight loss. The UK is a leader in this field, but funding is incredibly low. Investing in the lab means finding more effective treatments and cures, saving the eye sight of millions across the globe.”
The results of the study will be published at the end of 2018.
AMD is one of the leading causes of sight loss in the UK with 71,000 people of European ancestry developing the condition each year, the eye research charity highlighted.
Other studies currently being funded by Fight for Sight include a look at if stem cells can repair the retina’s blood supply in dry AMD, how our genes and the environment interact to affect AMD risk, and exploring the link between calcium and AMD.
To find out more about the AMD studies, visit the Fight for Sight website.
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