Researchers from the University of Bristol that are looking for a more long-term treatment option for open angle glaucoma, have turned to gene therapy. Published in the journal Molecular Therapy, the study used a CRISPR gene editing approach to block the function of a gene called Aquaporin 1, which transports fluid in the eye. By turning Aquaporin-1 off in the eyes of mice, researchers saw that eye pressure dropped and that the optic nerve had less damage compared to untreated mice.
Follow up experiments are needed to understand if this treatment is safe and has long term effectiveness before it can be considered for a clinical trial.
FYidoctors announced a merger with Family Eyecare. Located along the
busy Edmonton-Calgary corridor in Central Alberta, the announcement highlights
FYidoctors’ first clinic merger in the area.
Founded in the late 1940s by WWII veteran Dr. Les
Walker, Family Eyecare was purchased by husband-and-wife duo, Dr. Kevin Engel
and Dr. Angela Power in 1999. Joined by associate, Dr. Samantha Sperber in
2017, the clinic holds a longstanding reputation in the community for its
highly trained staff, and the personalized approach they take to the vision
care of its patients.
“FYidoctors is committed to maintaining a doctor-led
approach to eye care which keeps patient needs as the top priority,” said Dr. Alan
Ulsifer, CEO and Chairman of FYidoctors. “We are pleased to partner with Family
Eyecare who subscribes to these same values and has been doing so for over 70
years.”
“We couldn’t be more thrilled to join the FYidoctors’
family and what this will mean for our patients and their eye health moving
forward,” said Dr. Engel. The sentiment was echoed by Dr. Power, who added,
“not only will this new partnership provide our practice with a variety of new
tools and resources, but it also gives us access to the largest optometric
network in the world – which will result in efficiencies and cost savings that
ultimately benefit the residents of Lacombe.”
Recognized for its outstanding commitment to vision
care in the community, Family Eyecare has been twice nominated for local
business of the year in Lacombe, Alberta and is known for its contribution to a
variety of philanthropic causes across the region.
As the global COVID-19 pandemic enters its second year, a new initiative from the Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE) addresses questions that may keep people from seeking proper eye care.
CORE has designed two infographics that eye care professionals can incorporate into ongoing patient communications, such as through newsletters, email campaigns, website content, social media and in-office displays. Created to be quickly read and easily understood, one infographic focuses on reasons to urgently contact an eye doctor. The other reassures patients of common steps being taken to ensure safety during in-office exams. Both are available for download from COVIDeyefacts.org and may be used at no cost if the content is not altered.
In conjunction, CORE Clinical Scientists Alison Ng, PhD, BSc(Hons), MCOptom, FAAO, and Mike Yang, OD, BSc, FAAO, have authored a consumer-facing feature story in collaboration with The Conversation, the non-profit, independent news organization that carries content from academic experts. “Why You Shouldn’t Neglect Eye Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic” is being distributed to major mainstream news outlets around the globe.
“Like many of our peers worldwide,
CORE’s optometrists and clinical scientists have been hearing people’s
confusion and concerns about their eyes in relation to COVID-19. Addressing the
most frequent should help patients and their families maintain healthy vision
while remaining safe,” said Dr. Ng. “Through our new infographics and feature
story, we hope that eye care professionals will be able to spread the word even
further in their communities.”
Reserve the date for the coolest virtual conference
platform in the optical industry.
MyVisionShow platform is designed to
facilitate virtual meetings and to ensure that industry professionals can truly
connect and interact in large or small groups, or one-on-one.
Attendees have access to nearly 20 live
presentations during the four-day event, including:
Barry Santini: The Power and Politics of
Disrupting Traditional Eyecare
Dr. Mary Boname: 5 Star Practice Owner – Tips for Success
Jason Kirk:
How to Succeed as an Independent optical
Jon Herring: Providing Award Winning Customer
Service
And many many more… including Fun Events!
The Lounge will be open for the entire 4-day event to meet up, face to face, with friends and colleagues. The Exhibit Area will host nearly 50 vendors, all of which are focused on the success of independent eye care and eyewear professionals. Show specials will also be available.
Nikon strives to provide patients with the utmost in Protection,
Precision and Aesthetics and has developed a complete sun lens collection to
meet each wearer’s lifestyle.
Design Match
Design Match: The prescription sun lens matches the same optical performance and comfort as delivered on clear prescription lenses. A technology aimed to give patients the best aesthetics, visual precision and UV protection.
SeeSun Mirror
SeeSun Mirror: The stylish mirror coating solution to sun lenses. Backed by Nikon’s recognized coating technology, SeeSun Mirror will fashionably protect your patients’ eyes in four trendy colours.
Polashade
Polashade: The optimal sunwear solution for unparalleled visual precision. Exclusive to Nikon Frames, Polashade is the perfect sunglass for outdoor activities on high reflective environment.
MIDO has released the exhibitor list for its 2026 edition, returning to Milan with around 1,200 exhibitors, new exhibition areas, and expanded industry programming.
Centennial Optical has partnered with Ió:ken Designs to develop and distribute a new Indigenous culturally inspired eyewear collection created in collaboration with Mohawk artist Bruce Boots.
Menicon has announced a change to the distribution of ROSE K lenses in Canada, concluding its licensing agreement with Blanchard Contact Lenses and continuing availability through Art Optical.
MIDO has released the exhibitor list for its 2026 edition, returning to Milan with around 1,200 exhibitors, new exhibition areas, and expanded industry programming.
Centennial Optical has partnered with Ió:ken Designs to develop and distribute a new Indigenous culturally inspired eyewear collection created in collaboration with Mohawk artist Bruce Boots.
Menicon has announced a change to the distribution of ROSE K lenses in Canada, concluding its licensing agreement with Blanchard Contact Lenses and continuing availability through Art Optical.
MIDO has released the exhibitor list for its 2026 edition, returning to Milan with around 1,200 exhibitors, new exhibition areas, and expanded industry programming.
Centennial Optical has partnered with Ió:ken Designs to develop and distribute a new Indigenous culturally inspired eyewear collection created in collaboration with Mohawk artist Bruce Boots.
Menicon has announced a change to the distribution of ROSE K lenses in Canada, concluding its licensing agreement with Blanchard Contact Lenses and continuing availability through Art Optical.
MIDO has released the exhibitor list for its 2026 edition, returning to Milan with around 1,200 exhibitors, new exhibition areas, and expanded industry programming.
Centennial Optical has partnered with Ió:ken Designs to develop and distribute a new Indigenous culturally inspired eyewear collection created in collaboration with Mohawk artist Bruce Boots.
Menicon has announced a change to the distribution of ROSE K lenses in Canada, concluding its licensing agreement with Blanchard Contact Lenses and continuing availability through Art Optical.
