Optometry and Vision Sciences - Research Publications

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    Can HMG Co-A reductase inhibitors ("statins") slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration? The Age-Related Maculopathy Statin Study (ARMSS)
    Guymer, RH ; Dimitrov, PN ; Varsamidis, M ; Lim, LL ; Baird, PN ; Vingrys, AJ ; Robman, L (DOVE MEDICAL PRESS LTD, 2008)
    Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is responsible for the majority of visual impairment in the Western world. The role of cholesterol-lowering medications, HMG Co-A reductase inhibitors or statins, in reducing the risk of AMD or of delaying its progression has not been fully investigated. A 3-year prospective randomized controlled trial of 40 mg simvastatin per day compared to placebo in subjects at high risk of AMD progression is described. This paper outlines the primary aims of the Age-Related Maculopathy Statin Study (ARMSS), and the methodology involved. Standardized clinical grading of macular photographs and comparison of serial macular digital photographs, using the International grading scheme, form the basis for assessment of primary study outcomes. In addition, macular function is assessed at each visit with detailed psychophysical measurements of rod and cone function. Information collected in this study will assist in the assessment of the potential value of HMG Co-A reductase inhibitors (statins) in reducing the risk of AMD progression.
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    Functional Changes in the Retina during and after Acute Intraocular Pressure Elevation in Mice
    Kong, YX ; Crowston, JG ; Vingrys, AJ ; Trounce, IA ; Bui, BV (ASSOC RESEARCH VISION OPHTHALMOLOGY INC, 2009-12)
    PURPOSE: To examine retinal function using the full-field electroretinogram (ERG) during and after acute intraocular pressure (IOP) elevation in wild-type mice. METHODS: IOP was elevated by anterior chamber cannulation in wild-type C57/BL6 mice. The pressure-function relationship was determined by IOP elevation in steps from baseline to 80 mm Hg. The rate of functional recovery was assessed for 60 minutes after an IOP spike of 50 mm Hg for 30 minutes. During and immediately after IOP elevation, scotopic ERG signals were recorded in response to dim and bright flashes (-4.54, -2.23, and 0.34 log cd x s x m(-2)) and analyzed for photoreceptoral (a-wave), ON-bipolar (b-wave), oscillatory potentials (OPs), and scotopic threshold responses (positive [p]STR/negative [n] STR). A full ERG protocol was collected 2 days before and 7 days after the single 50-mm Hg IOP spike. RESULTS: The pSTR was most sensitive to IOP elevation with 50% amplitude loss (mu) at 41 mm Hg (mu, 95% confidence limits (CL): 37.7, 45.6) followed by nSTR at 45 mm Hg (95% CL: 41.0, 49.1). pSTR was significantly more sensitive than the b-wave (95% CL: 41.4, 49.1), a-wave (95% CL: 47.6, 55.3), and OPs (95% CL: 49.6, 59.2). pSTR showed slower recovery immediately after the 50 mm Hg spike compared with the b-wave (P = 0.02). One week after the 50-mm Hg spike, pSTR (-30% +/- 6%, P < 0.001) and OP (-27% +/- 2%, P < 0.001) amplitudes were reduced, whereas other components were unaffected. CONCLUSIONS: The STR in mice is more sensitive to acute IOP elevation and recovers slower than other ERG components. Reduction in pSTR and OP amplitude at 1 week suggests persistent impairment of inner retinal function can occur after a single IOP spike.