By james art 
Imagine if an ordinary beam of light could one day treat conditions as close insight or age -related macular degeneration (AMD). Researchers at the University of Nevada, the Renault Medical School (UNR Med) and the University of Washington, Seattle, have revealed a remarkable connection between light and blood flow to the eyes – an insight that can revolutionize vision care.
The Gonzales Laboratory at Unr Med, led by Albert Gonzales, Doctor of Sciences, Assistant Professor of Physiology and Cell Biology, heads this study, casting a new light on how our eyes work and open the door to non -invasive treatments for common eye diseases.
The role of light in the physiology of the eyes
When the light enters the eye, it activates the retina photorecepter cells – cones and rods – allowing vision. Behind the retina lies the choroid, a dense network of blood vessels from keys to deliver oxygen and nutrients to these photoreceptors, while removing the metabolic waste. However, the high blood flow of the choroid can prevent this exchange. The researchers compared this to trying to convey a note to someone who sprints at full speed to walk: “The slow movement facilitates a fined exchange. Similarly, reducing blood flow improves this process. ”
Discover Opsini in the choroid
Leaded by former PhD, Ahmed Eltanahi, Doctor of Medicine, (now at the Children’s Hospital in Seattle) and current PhD, Alex Aequinth, D.Sc., Gonzales Laboratory, collaborated with Ethan Bur, Doctor and Russell Van Gelder, MD, Doctor, Doctor of sciences, from the University of Washington, Seattle, to explore how the choroid regulates blood flow. Their studies reveal that light proteins, known as opsins-like those in photoreceptors, are also present in the blood vessels of the choroid. Using sophisticated image techniques, the team demonstrates that violet light (405 Nm) activates these ops, leading to restriction of arterioles. This narrowing regulates blood flow and controls the movement of the fluid in the eye.
“Our inspiration came from wicked observation,” Gonzalez said. “While conducting experiments, D -Eltanahi noticed that the specific vascular cells in the choroid respond when exposed to specific wavelengths of light. This unexpected discovery made my team explore the connection between light activation and vascular function more deeply. ”
By testing different wavelengths, the team has identified the violet light as the most effective when activating opsins. “Opsins act as detectors in a certain range of wavelength,” Aupetit explained. “By identifying the specific type of opsin present in the choroid, we have confirmed the optimal wavelength of activation.”
Alex Aupetit, D.Sc., Imaging Isolated Cells on Revolution Hybrid Microscope by detecting an echo intended for research research on life.Effects on eye health
The consequences of these discoveries are significant. Proper regulation of blood flow to the choroid is crucial to maintaining the shape of the eye and the metabolic balance required by photoreceptors requiring energy.
“Our studies show that light sensitive choroid vasculature helps to modulate blood flow, facilitates the effective delivery of nutrients and the removal of waste – this process is vital to maintaining retinal health,” said apeptitis.
The team is now investigating the therapeutic potential of these mechanisms. “Target therapy with blue light and modulating the flow of choroid blood can offer non -invasive treatments for conditions such as myopia and AMD,” Aupetit noted.
In my short-sightedness, changes in the form of the choroid and eye cause the focal point in front of the retina are formed, but the changes in the blue light in the movement of the fluid can help to reshape the eye and the repositioning of the retina for clearer vision. For AMD, where waste accumulation leads to loss of vision, light therapy can increase waste clearance and slow progression of the disease. However, researchers are also taking care of the overstimulation.
“Excessive exposure to violet light can lead to pernicious effects, such as arterial remodeling, which can reduce vascular responsiveness,” warned aopeitis.
Platform for growth, research and cooperation
The success of the study depends on the modern image techniques and the preparation of the completes developed by Dr. Eltanahi, which allowed the team to capture subtle but significant changes in cellular activity.
“Without these tools, visualizing vascular reactions caused by high resolution light would be a challenge,” said aopeitis. He also emphasized the joint nature of the study. “Our experience in advanced images and vascular physiology was central to the University of Washington University’s detection process and was essential to confirming the participating Opsin species.”
This project serves as a valuable training platform for emerging researchers. “He offers practical experience in experimental design, data analysis and sophisticated image technologies, contributing significantly to the professional development of our post -documents,” said Gonzalez.
The broader impact of fundamental studies
Thinking on the broader impact of the study, Gonzalez emphasized the importance of fundamental scientific research. “Our discoveries reveal a compelling connection between light and vascular health in the eye, emphasizing the potential for non -invasive therapies for vision conditions. This study emphasizes the importance of fundamental scientific research, as even serial discoveries can lead to innovative insights that can one day transform patient care. ”