A 13-member research team led by University of Oregon scientist Dr. Albert O. Edwards has found a gene likely responsible for Fuchs corneal dystrophy, an inheritable genetic disorder and leading cause of corneal transplant operations.
Edwards performed a genome-wide analysis comparing patients with and without typical age-related Fuchs, finding an alteration in the transcription-factor-4 gene (TCF4). Fuchs -- pronounced FEWKS or FOOKS -- generally emerges in middle-aged, roughly age 40, and older people.
The discovery appears online Wednesday, Aug. 25, ahead of regular publication in the Sept. 9 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine.
Fuchs emerges slowly with blurred or cloudy vision, tiny bumps known as guttae (GOO-tay) on the cornea's surface and, in severe stages, painful blisters on the corneal surface. The disease affects the endothelium, a thin layer of cells that line the back part of the cornea where changes result in swelling of the cornea and thickening and clouding of the cornea. Guttae are found in the corneas of an estimated 5 percent of people in the United States.
Of those diagnosed with Fuchs, only a small percentage go on to require corneal transplants, said lead author Dr. Keith H. Baratz of the Mayo Clinic ophthalmology department in Rochester, Minn. There are about 40,000 corneal transplants -- about 10,000 linked to Fuchs -- performed annually in the United States, according to the Eye Bank Association of America. It is more common in women than in men, according to the Fuchs Corneal Dystrophy Association.
The discovery won't immediately translate into clinical benefits, but "this is the first step in identifying the pathophysiology of the disease," Baratz said. "Right now, we don't have a treatment for Fuchs dystrophy other than transplant surgery when a patient is at the end stages of the disease. The ultimate goal is to find out how the disease occurs and find a treatment to prevent or slow its progression."
Having the TCF4 gene variation has a huge impact on the risk of Fuchs disease, said Edwards, a senior research associate in the University of Oregon's Institute of Molecular Biology. "It vastly exceeds the risk found previously for the complement-factor-H gene in macular degeneration," he said. "If a person has risk variants involving TCF4, that individual is anywhere from several to a couple of hundred times more likely to have Fuchs disease."
Edwards, in 2005, when at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, was lead author of a study published in the journal Science that identified complement factor H in macular degeneration. That gene discovery tied complement factor H to a five-fold increase of risk to developing macular degeneration, accounting possibly for at least 50 percent of the risk of being affected. The risk impact of TCF4 on Fuchs is much stronger, Edwards said.
While the TCF4 gene has been identified, exactly what occurs to cause a defect is not understood. The researchers found evidence that at least one transcription protein, E2-2, needs more scrutiny. "E2-2 is a transcription factor. It controls gene expression," Edwards said. "The pathway probably contains E2-2 and the protein ZEB1, but we don't really know that yet. We do find variation of expression across this region, so it has something to do with the expression of the gene."
E2-2, important in cellular growth and differentiation, has been implicated in other disease states, including activity that promotes or suppresses cancer. It is expressed in the corneal endothelium. ZEB1, which may be regulated by E2-2, already is thought to contribute to Fuchs.
The study involved the genotyping of 280 Fuchs patients recruited in clinical settings in Minnesota and Michigan. These patients had at least Stage 1 signs of Fuchs or had received corneal replacements as a result of the disease. Their genomes were compared with 410 control patients.
"The real impact of what we've done is to determine the biological underpinnings of the disease," Edwards said. "We've identified a protein that is probably involved, and that will allow us to, hopefully, identify a method to prevent people from losing their vision."
Three other genes previously had been linked to very rare subtypes of Fuchs. In addition, early onset Fuchs has been linked to mutations in yet another gene, COL8A2, but Edwards and colleagues suggest in their paper that this may be a different disease with a different cause.
"This discovery demonstrates the value of excellent clinical phenotyping and a large-scale genetic database of genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to uncover genetic risk factors for many vision-related disorders," said co-author Anand Swaroop, chief of the National Eye Institute (NEI) Neurobiology-Neurodegeneration and Repair Laboratory. "The genetic data used in this study was obtained for GWAS of age-related macular degeneration through a scientific collaboration supported by the NEI."
Sunday, August 29, 2010
Monday, August 23, 2010
International Stem Cell Corporation Formalizes Stem Cell- Based Eye Care Programs Into Cyovis
Article Date: 22 Aug 2010
International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB:ISCO), announced that its stem cell therapeutic programs focused on protective, transparent corneas (CytoCor™) in the front of the eye and the light-sensitive retinal tissue (CytoRet™) in the back of the eye will be formalized into a new business unit, Cytovis™. Together these programs will leverage external and internal development, regulatory and commercial expertise in cellular ophthalmology to form a focused portfolio of complementary product candidates designed to address high unmet medical needs with apparent pharmacoeconomic and quality of life benefits.
CytoCor is the brand name for ISCO's corneal tissue that can be derived from the company's proprietary parthenogenetic stem cells or commonly used embryonic stem cells. Research and development with partners Absorption Systems in the US, Sankara Nethralaya in India and Automation Partnership in the UK continues for the purpose of optimizing the tissue for transplantation in the 10 million people worldwide suffering from corneal vision impairment and as an alternative to the use of live animals and animal eyes in the $500+M market for safety testing of drugs, chemicals and consumer products. ISCO's goal in the coming months is to establish funding and infrastructure in India for accelerated development of CytoCor for the therapeutic application and to advance and implement the chemical testing application with partners in the US and Europe.
CytoRet is the brand name for ISCO's stem cell-derived retinal tissue. ISCO is using its parthenogenetic stem cells to develop individual retinal pigmented epithelial ("RPE") cells and layered retinal structures internally and in collaboration with the laboratory of Dr. Hans Keirstead, Professor of Anatomy and Neurobiology at the University of California, Irvine. ISCO recently commenced a new research collaboration with UC Irvine to launch the next phase of its retinal studies with that institution, including preclinical trials. Potential therapeutic applications include retinitis pigmentosa, an untreatable inherited disease affecting about 100,000 Americans, and the dry form of age-related macular degeneration, a major cause of blindness in the elderly of the Western world. ISCO's goal is to establish functional proof of concept for RPE cellular therapy in models of human disease in the next twelve-eighteen months.
Jointly referred to as Cytovis ("cyto" for cellular, "vis" for vision), these two cellular ophthalmology programs share a number of features and benefits. First, with the aging of the population worldwide and the growing number of work-related eye injuries in India, China and other major countries, the market opportunity is growing steadily. Second, there are strong pharmacoeconomic and quality-of-life rationales for full or partial vision restoration or delay of vision impairment diseases. Third, delivery of cells and tissues to the confined anatomy of the eye inherently provides for better safety and efficacy than, for example, the systemic circulation or the central nervous system. This will likely result in lower regulatory barriers and shorter and less costly development paths compared to that of anatomically deeper and more widespread diseases. Fourth, a number of eye diseases cannot be treated with surgery or traditional small molecule or protein therapeutics, yet cell and tissue therapy is proven to work but currently limited by availability of safe and sufficient cells and tissue from human donors. Finally, eye care development programs like CytoCor and CytoRet share a number of regulatory, development and commercial aspects that make it feasible for a relatively small team to produce substantial clinical outcomes and achieve competitive presence in the marketplace alone or in collaboration with dedicated partners.
Brian Lundstrom, ISCO's President, says: "ISCO's proprietary parthenogenetic stem cell technology continues to form the foundation for the company's long term regenerative medicine therapy programs. In the nearer term, CytoCor and CytoRet's unique benefits in the field of cellular ophthalmology offer the potential for partnering and funding at a relatively early stage. Combined with the current and future revenue of Lifeline Cell Technology and the revenue potential of Lifeline Skin Care, scheduled for launch in the 4th quarter, Cytovis adds significantly to ISCO's diversity and value creation potential for its investor base in a cost-efficient fashion."
Source:
International Stem Cell Corporation
International Stem Cell Corporation (OTCBB:ISCO), announced that its stem cell therapeutic programs focused on protective, transparent corneas (CytoCor™) in the front of the eye and the light-sensitive retinal tissue (CytoRet™) in the back of the eye will be formalized into a new business unit, Cytovis™. Together these programs will leverage external and internal development, regulatory and commercial expertise in cellular ophthalmology to form a focused portfolio of complementary product candidates designed to address high unmet medical needs with apparent pharmacoeconomic and quality of life benefits.
CytoCor is the brand name for ISCO's corneal tissue that can be derived from the company's proprietary parthenogenetic stem cells or commonly used embryonic stem cells. Research and development with partners Absorption Systems in the US, Sankara Nethralaya in India and Automation Partnership in the UK continues for the purpose of optimizing the tissue for transplantation in the 10 million people worldwide suffering from corneal vision impairment and as an alternative to the use of live animals and animal eyes in the $500+M market for safety testing of drugs, chemicals and consumer products. ISCO's goal in the coming months is to establish funding and infrastructure in India for accelerated development of CytoCor for the therapeutic application and to advance and implement the chemical testing application with partners in the US and Europe.
CytoRet is the brand name for ISCO's stem cell-derived retinal tissue. ISCO is using its parthenogenetic stem cells to develop individual retinal pigmented epithelial ("RPE") cells and layered retinal structures internally and in collaboration with the laboratory of Dr. Hans Keirstead, Professor of Anatomy and Neurobiology at the University of California, Irvine. ISCO recently commenced a new research collaboration with UC Irvine to launch the next phase of its retinal studies with that institution, including preclinical trials. Potential therapeutic applications include retinitis pigmentosa, an untreatable inherited disease affecting about 100,000 Americans, and the dry form of age-related macular degeneration, a major cause of blindness in the elderly of the Western world. ISCO's goal is to establish functional proof of concept for RPE cellular therapy in models of human disease in the next twelve-eighteen months.
Jointly referred to as Cytovis ("cyto" for cellular, "vis" for vision), these two cellular ophthalmology programs share a number of features and benefits. First, with the aging of the population worldwide and the growing number of work-related eye injuries in India, China and other major countries, the market opportunity is growing steadily. Second, there are strong pharmacoeconomic and quality-of-life rationales for full or partial vision restoration or delay of vision impairment diseases. Third, delivery of cells and tissues to the confined anatomy of the eye inherently provides for better safety and efficacy than, for example, the systemic circulation or the central nervous system. This will likely result in lower regulatory barriers and shorter and less costly development paths compared to that of anatomically deeper and more widespread diseases. Fourth, a number of eye diseases cannot be treated with surgery or traditional small molecule or protein therapeutics, yet cell and tissue therapy is proven to work but currently limited by availability of safe and sufficient cells and tissue from human donors. Finally, eye care development programs like CytoCor and CytoRet share a number of regulatory, development and commercial aspects that make it feasible for a relatively small team to produce substantial clinical outcomes and achieve competitive presence in the marketplace alone or in collaboration with dedicated partners.
Brian Lundstrom, ISCO's President, says: "ISCO's proprietary parthenogenetic stem cell technology continues to form the foundation for the company's long term regenerative medicine therapy programs. In the nearer term, CytoCor and CytoRet's unique benefits in the field of cellular ophthalmology offer the potential for partnering and funding at a relatively early stage. Combined with the current and future revenue of Lifeline Cell Technology and the revenue potential of Lifeline Skin Care, scheduled for launch in the 4th quarter, Cytovis adds significantly to ISCO's diversity and value creation potential for its investor base in a cost-efficient fashion."
Source:
International Stem Cell Corporation
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Macular Degeneration and Heavy Metals
By Jannette Barrett
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular Degeneration is a condition that affects the macula part of the retina of the eye resulting in a disturbance to central vision. Although the exact etiology of the disease is unknown, it is believed that deterioration of the retina leads to a breakdown in the transmission of signals to the brain from the nerves and receptors of the eye. When the signals are unclear, the brain cannot correctly interpret the information it receives and there is a loss of the detail that allows us to read, recognise people, perform manual work or manage fine tasks such as threading a needle. A person with macular degeneration may experience blurred or decreased central vision, blind spots, wavy lines instead of straight and size distortion.
There are two types of macular degeneration, wet and dry.
The onset of wet macular degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels, which have grown under the centre of the retina, bleed or leak and scar the retina. Macula damage may occur rapidly. It is not uncommon for wet macular degeneration to start in one eye and effect the other at a later time.
Dry macular degeneration, which is the most common form, results from a gradual breakdown of cells in the macula leading to blurring of central vision. The onset of dry macular degeneration can be detected early by an optometrist because of the presence of small, yellowish spots, called drusen, at the back of the eye. However, people who have drusen, may not have visual impairment or related symptoms. When dry macular degeneration advances due to damage to the retina and nerves, vision loss will occur.
Macular degeneration is treated by laser surgery, photodynamic therapy where a drug is injected that destroys newly formed, abnormal blood vessels or injections, however, none of these treatments can restore the vision that has already been lost.
Risk factors
There are a number of identified risk factors associated with AMD. Family history and age are thought to be the most common risk factors. People with outdoor occupations and continuous exposure to sunlight may also be at risk, particularly if their skin is lightly pigmented. Women seem to be at a greater risk than men. There are also environmental and behavioural factors such as smoking and obesity. Research cited below shows that a build up of toxic heavy metals can damage eye health.
Research
The National Institute of Health and the National Eye Institute in the US, published the results of a random study of people with moderate and advanced AMD in the Archives of Opthalmology in 2001, entitled the Age-Related Eye Disease Study. The study reported that a significant slowing of disease progression and preservation of sight could be achieved by taking dietary supplements containing high-dose antioxidants and zinc.
Research published by Erie et al in 2005 in the American Journal of Opthalmology, measured the concentration of toxic heavy metals in the fluids and tissues of human eyes. Concentrations of lead, cadmium, mercury, and thallium in ocular tissues, ocular fluids, and blood were found in the autopsy of 30 eyes from 16 subjects. The study concluded the presence of lead and cadmium which had accumulated in the tissues and retinal pigment epithelium and choroid. Further study into the toxicity of these heavy metals and their possible role in eye disease was recommended.
What Can We Do?
In addition to the medical treatments mentioned above, there are a number of common sense things we can do to help prevent the onset of macular degeneration.
In order for high-dose antioxidants and zinc to be effectively absorbed into the body and to protect the eyes from heavy metals, it is firstly essential to detoxify the body. Published clinical trials have shown that when removing heavy metals and toxins, including pesticides and herbicides from the body safely and effectively, supplements will be more readily absorbed, the immune system may function more efficiently and normal blood pressure may be more easily maintained. Eating a healthy diet, including green leafy vegetables and fish, is also essential to good eye health. A healthy diet will help with weight control as will some regular exercise. Giving up smoking is critical for eye health.
Some people also believe in the benefit of eye exercises to increase eye health. Firstly move the eye slowly from side to side, then from top to bottom a few times. Move the eyes in a circular motion, then reverse a few times. Finally, raise your finger level with your nose and focus there for a time, then focus on something in the distance.
Remember the most important step, to take a daily detoxifying shower on the inside to give your eyes the maximum chance for sustained health. Your body will love you!
Author Resource:- Jannette has researched health and well being issues for the past 20 years and holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Health Promotion. Healthy eating, regular meditation, moderation in everything and taking the correct supplements can make an enormous improvement to the quality of our lives.
What Is Macular Degeneration?
Macular Degeneration is a condition that affects the macula part of the retina of the eye resulting in a disturbance to central vision. Although the exact etiology of the disease is unknown, it is believed that deterioration of the retina leads to a breakdown in the transmission of signals to the brain from the nerves and receptors of the eye. When the signals are unclear, the brain cannot correctly interpret the information it receives and there is a loss of the detail that allows us to read, recognise people, perform manual work or manage fine tasks such as threading a needle. A person with macular degeneration may experience blurred or decreased central vision, blind spots, wavy lines instead of straight and size distortion.
There are two types of macular degeneration, wet and dry.
The onset of wet macular degeneration occurs when abnormal blood vessels, which have grown under the centre of the retina, bleed or leak and scar the retina. Macula damage may occur rapidly. It is not uncommon for wet macular degeneration to start in one eye and effect the other at a later time.
Dry macular degeneration, which is the most common form, results from a gradual breakdown of cells in the macula leading to blurring of central vision. The onset of dry macular degeneration can be detected early by an optometrist because of the presence of small, yellowish spots, called drusen, at the back of the eye. However, people who have drusen, may not have visual impairment or related symptoms. When dry macular degeneration advances due to damage to the retina and nerves, vision loss will occur.
Macular degeneration is treated by laser surgery, photodynamic therapy where a drug is injected that destroys newly formed, abnormal blood vessels or injections, however, none of these treatments can restore the vision that has already been lost.
Risk factors
There are a number of identified risk factors associated with AMD. Family history and age are thought to be the most common risk factors. People with outdoor occupations and continuous exposure to sunlight may also be at risk, particularly if their skin is lightly pigmented. Women seem to be at a greater risk than men. There are also environmental and behavioural factors such as smoking and obesity. Research cited below shows that a build up of toxic heavy metals can damage eye health.
Research
The National Institute of Health and the National Eye Institute in the US, published the results of a random study of people with moderate and advanced AMD in the Archives of Opthalmology in 2001, entitled the Age-Related Eye Disease Study. The study reported that a significant slowing of disease progression and preservation of sight could be achieved by taking dietary supplements containing high-dose antioxidants and zinc.
Research published by Erie et al in 2005 in the American Journal of Opthalmology, measured the concentration of toxic heavy metals in the fluids and tissues of human eyes. Concentrations of lead, cadmium, mercury, and thallium in ocular tissues, ocular fluids, and blood were found in the autopsy of 30 eyes from 16 subjects. The study concluded the presence of lead and cadmium which had accumulated in the tissues and retinal pigment epithelium and choroid. Further study into the toxicity of these heavy metals and their possible role in eye disease was recommended.
What Can We Do?
In addition to the medical treatments mentioned above, there are a number of common sense things we can do to help prevent the onset of macular degeneration.
In order for high-dose antioxidants and zinc to be effectively absorbed into the body and to protect the eyes from heavy metals, it is firstly essential to detoxify the body. Published clinical trials have shown that when removing heavy metals and toxins, including pesticides and herbicides from the body safely and effectively, supplements will be more readily absorbed, the immune system may function more efficiently and normal blood pressure may be more easily maintained. Eating a healthy diet, including green leafy vegetables and fish, is also essential to good eye health. A healthy diet will help with weight control as will some regular exercise. Giving up smoking is critical for eye health.
Some people also believe in the benefit of eye exercises to increase eye health. Firstly move the eye slowly from side to side, then from top to bottom a few times. Move the eyes in a circular motion, then reverse a few times. Finally, raise your finger level with your nose and focus there for a time, then focus on something in the distance.
Remember the most important step, to take a daily detoxifying shower on the inside to give your eyes the maximum chance for sustained health. Your body will love you!
Author Resource:- Jannette has researched health and well being issues for the past 20 years and holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Health Promotion. Healthy eating, regular meditation, moderation in everything and taking the correct supplements can make an enormous improvement to the quality of our lives.
Monday, August 9, 2010
The Best 9 Omega-Fish Oil Benefits
“A huge amount of studies show that, not only are the benefits of fish oil numerous, many of them are really very amazing! It seems sometimes like new research is being produced all the time, as researchers and physicians learn even more about how and why it is indeed effective. The omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil are “good fats” that are vital to health. They are crucial for our health but our bodies can’t produce them – you have to get them through diet.
Here are some proven fish oil health benefits that should convince you to eat more oily, wild-caught fish and begin taking a highly refined fish oil supplement in the event you’re not at present!
Reduces Pain & Inflammation
Omega-3s possess a great anti-inflammatory impact. Research trials suggest that diets rich in omega-3s (and low in the pro-inflammatory omega-6s) may benefit people with inflammatory conditions — anything that ends in -itis!. Omega-3 additionally has been used to effectively treat neck, back and menstrual pain, allowing study patients to cut down their particular consumption of NSAID medication.
Promotes Heart Wellness & Protects Against Heart Attack and Strokes
Fish oil continues to grow in research reputation as a key promoter of heart health. According to the American Heart Association, fish oil is effective in lessening the incidence of heart disease and aids in reducing risk factors such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Research studies of heart attack survivors have discovered that daily fish oil capsules drastically minimize the risk of death, additional heart attacks and stroke. Omega-3s also reduce blood triglycerides, help correct irregular heartbeats, and can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis by preventing the formation of plaque and blood clots, which typically clog arteries.
Ensures Healthy Joints and Reduces Arthritis Symptoms
The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil reduce tenderness in joints, pain intensity and morning stiffness caused by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, several test tube studies have shown that omega-3s actually lessen the action of enzymes that break down cartilage. More than 13 published research trials have shown that fish oil supplements are very effective at treating rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil has helped those suffering from RA to reduce their need for pain medicine.
Supports Happy Mood & Emotional Wellness
In nations where fish makes up a significant part of the diet, nationwide rates of depression are lower. So, it’s not surprising that studies have shown that fish oil capsules can alleviate the symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder and psychosis. Numerous clinical trials have found that participants that took omega-3s in addition to prescribed anti-depressants had a larger improvement in symptoms than those who only took antidepressants, with subjects experiencing a stabilizing effect and less mood swings. Studies have also demonstrated that, when prisoners were administered omega three fatty acids, there was a significant drop in hostile behavior. Omega-3s also appear to lower the risk ofpostpartum depression.
Enhances Mental Focus & Long-Term Cognitive Functioning
Did you know that omega-3s, especially DHA, are highly concentrated in our brains? They’re important for optimal cognitive (brain memory and performance) and behavioral function, as well as normal growth and development. Studies demonstrate that omega-3s may help in maintaining adequate cognitive functioning and possibly in avoiding or delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. We also now know it’s incredibly necessary that pregnant women get adequate DHA, which is required by the developing fetus — during the third trimester of being pregnant, the brain of the fetus grows at a rate of a quarter million new neurons every 60 seconds! Children are also aided by omega-3 intake, as many studies show that omega-3s enhance learning, concentration, reading and vocabulary skills. Countless studies have even shown benefits in treating ADD.
Promotes Vision Wellness
Studies show that people with a greater omega-3 consumption appear to have a decreased risk of Dry-Eye Syndrome and developing AMD, or age-related macular degeneration. Early research also shows that fish oil supplements aid in lessening dry eye symptoms, may help to slow macular degeneration for those already developing it and improves ocular health in general.
Pregnancy, Infant Brain/Vision Development & Reduced Incidence of Childhood Disorders
DHA makes up 15-20% of the cerebral cortex and approximately 30-60% of the retina, so it’s absolutely necessary for normal growth and development of the fetus and baby. Prenatal DHA availability also seems to reduce the chances of childhood allergies and have an effect on motor skill quality, cognitive development and hyperactivity/behavior later in the child’s life. Omega-3s also assist in reducing the risk of low birth weight and premature birth.
Enhances Metabolism of Fat and Weight Loss
According to the National Institute of Health, omega-3s transmit “I’m full” signals to the brain and help quash hunger signals. Research has also shown that omega-3 fish oil improves the effectiveness of exercise in reducing weight. Volunteers who were alloted fish oil with their diet showed greater weight loss as compared to those who didn’t consume fish oil. Exercise along with fish oil had a positive effect on the body shape and body composition of the volunteers. Reduces Risk of Prostate, Breast & Colorectal Cancers Though more research in this area is certainly needed, we now know that the omega 3’s that appear in fish oil assist in the prevention and treatment of testicular, prostate, breast and ovarian cancers. Preliminary studies suggest that taking fish oil everyday can help inhibit the progression of colon cancer in people with early stages of the disease and may even have the capacity to cause apoptosis (cellular death) of cancer cells.
More can be written with regards to the many fish oil benefits. And, as the scientific community and doctors continue to examine omega-3s, you can bet that fish oil will keep making headlines as the ideal source of these essential fatty acids that are so essential to our bodies. Even if you’re currently in great health, a quality fish oil supplement is the fastest, safest way to realize and maintain optimal health!”
Here are some proven fish oil health benefits that should convince you to eat more oily, wild-caught fish and begin taking a highly refined fish oil supplement in the event you’re not at present!
Reduces Pain & Inflammation
Omega-3s possess a great anti-inflammatory impact. Research trials suggest that diets rich in omega-3s (and low in the pro-inflammatory omega-6s) may benefit people with inflammatory conditions — anything that ends in -itis!. Omega-3 additionally has been used to effectively treat neck, back and menstrual pain, allowing study patients to cut down their particular consumption of NSAID medication.
Promotes Heart Wellness & Protects Against Heart Attack and Strokes
Fish oil continues to grow in research reputation as a key promoter of heart health. According to the American Heart Association, fish oil is effective in lessening the incidence of heart disease and aids in reducing risk factors such as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Research studies of heart attack survivors have discovered that daily fish oil capsules drastically minimize the risk of death, additional heart attacks and stroke. Omega-3s also reduce blood triglycerides, help correct irregular heartbeats, and can help prevent and treat atherosclerosis by preventing the formation of plaque and blood clots, which typically clog arteries.
Ensures Healthy Joints and Reduces Arthritis Symptoms
The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil reduce tenderness in joints, pain intensity and morning stiffness caused by rheumatoid arthritis. In fact, several test tube studies have shown that omega-3s actually lessen the action of enzymes that break down cartilage. More than 13 published research trials have shown that fish oil supplements are very effective at treating rheumatoid arthritis. Fish oil has helped those suffering from RA to reduce their need for pain medicine.
Supports Happy Mood & Emotional Wellness
In nations where fish makes up a significant part of the diet, nationwide rates of depression are lower. So, it’s not surprising that studies have shown that fish oil capsules can alleviate the symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder and psychosis. Numerous clinical trials have found that participants that took omega-3s in addition to prescribed anti-depressants had a larger improvement in symptoms than those who only took antidepressants, with subjects experiencing a stabilizing effect and less mood swings. Studies have also demonstrated that, when prisoners were administered omega three fatty acids, there was a significant drop in hostile behavior. Omega-3s also appear to lower the risk ofpostpartum depression.
Enhances Mental Focus & Long-Term Cognitive Functioning
Did you know that omega-3s, especially DHA, are highly concentrated in our brains? They’re important for optimal cognitive (brain memory and performance) and behavioral function, as well as normal growth and development. Studies demonstrate that omega-3s may help in maintaining adequate cognitive functioning and possibly in avoiding or delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s disease. We also now know it’s incredibly necessary that pregnant women get adequate DHA, which is required by the developing fetus — during the third trimester of being pregnant, the brain of the fetus grows at a rate of a quarter million new neurons every 60 seconds! Children are also aided by omega-3 intake, as many studies show that omega-3s enhance learning, concentration, reading and vocabulary skills. Countless studies have even shown benefits in treating ADD.
Promotes Vision Wellness
Studies show that people with a greater omega-3 consumption appear to have a decreased risk of Dry-Eye Syndrome and developing AMD, or age-related macular degeneration. Early research also shows that fish oil supplements aid in lessening dry eye symptoms, may help to slow macular degeneration for those already developing it and improves ocular health in general.
Pregnancy, Infant Brain/Vision Development & Reduced Incidence of Childhood Disorders
DHA makes up 15-20% of the cerebral cortex and approximately 30-60% of the retina, so it’s absolutely necessary for normal growth and development of the fetus and baby. Prenatal DHA availability also seems to reduce the chances of childhood allergies and have an effect on motor skill quality, cognitive development and hyperactivity/behavior later in the child’s life. Omega-3s also assist in reducing the risk of low birth weight and premature birth.
Enhances Metabolism of Fat and Weight Loss
According to the National Institute of Health, omega-3s transmit “I’m full” signals to the brain and help quash hunger signals. Research has also shown that omega-3 fish oil improves the effectiveness of exercise in reducing weight. Volunteers who were alloted fish oil with their diet showed greater weight loss as compared to those who didn’t consume fish oil. Exercise along with fish oil had a positive effect on the body shape and body composition of the volunteers. Reduces Risk of Prostate, Breast & Colorectal Cancers Though more research in this area is certainly needed, we now know that the omega 3’s that appear in fish oil assist in the prevention and treatment of testicular, prostate, breast and ovarian cancers. Preliminary studies suggest that taking fish oil everyday can help inhibit the progression of colon cancer in people with early stages of the disease and may even have the capacity to cause apoptosis (cellular death) of cancer cells.
More can be written with regards to the many fish oil benefits. And, as the scientific community and doctors continue to examine omega-3s, you can bet that fish oil will keep making headlines as the ideal source of these essential fatty acids that are so essential to our bodies. Even if you’re currently in great health, a quality fish oil supplement is the fastest, safest way to realize and maintain optimal health!”
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Avastin/Lucentis Update 39: And the Controversy Continues
By Alicia Mundy
Medicare could save more than $500 million annually by using a cheaper Genentech drug to save vision, according to a draft study by federal officials and a University of Miami eye doctor.
The study shows that the cheaper drug, Avastin, is already used in about 65% of Medicare patients with wet age-related macular degeneration and accounts for nearly 60% of their eye injections, compared with about 40% for a more expensive drug called Lucentis. However, Medicare paid $537 million for Lucentis in 2008 and only $20 million for Avastin, according to the unpublished study, which was reviewed by The Wall Street Journal.
The numbers point to a delicate problem for the federal program for the elderly, whose rising costs are often cited as among the biggest long-term factors in the federal budget deficit. Both drugs are made by Genentech, but only Lucentis is approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat the disease, the leading cause of irreversible blindness among older people.
Clinical trials suggest that Avastin, approved by the FDA to treat some forms of cancer, is also effective in treating the eye disease. Doctors have been "voting for Avastin with their feet," said Philip Rosenfeld, a retina specialist at the University of Miami's Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and one of the study's authors. Some pharmacies take supplies of Avastin and divide it into tiny doses suitable for injection in the eye.
The study, based on data from more than 200,000 Medicare patients, found that Medicare paid on average $42 a dose for Avastin in the eye, compared with $1,593 a dose for Lucentis.
Medicare could save more than $500 million annually by using a cheaper Genentech drug to save vision, according to a draft study by federal officials and a University of Miami eye doctor.
The study shows that the cheaper drug, Avastin, is already used in about 65% of Medicare patients with wet age-related macular degeneration and accounts for nearly 60% of their eye injections, compared with about 40% for a more expensive drug called Lucentis. However, Medicare paid $537 million for Lucentis in 2008 and only $20 million for Avastin, according to the unpublished study, which was reviewed by The Wall Street Journal.
The numbers point to a delicate problem for the federal program for the elderly, whose rising costs are often cited as among the biggest long-term factors in the federal budget deficit. Both drugs are made by Genentech, but only Lucentis is approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat the disease, the leading cause of irreversible blindness among older people.
Clinical trials suggest that Avastin, approved by the FDA to treat some forms of cancer, is also effective in treating the eye disease. Doctors have been "voting for Avastin with their feet," said Philip Rosenfeld, a retina specialist at the University of Miami's Bascom Palmer Eye Institute and one of the study's authors. Some pharmacies take supplies of Avastin and divide it into tiny doses suitable for injection in the eye.
The study, based on data from more than 200,000 Medicare patients, found that Medicare paid on average $42 a dose for Avastin in the eye, compared with $1,593 a dose for Lucentis.
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