Synopsis
A recent study led by Australian researchers reveals a potential link between retinal thickness and diseases such as Type 2 diabetes and dementia. By analyzing over 50,000 eyes, the findings suggest that retinal imaging could serve as a valuable diagnostic tool for tracking the progression of these common conditions.Key Takeaways
- Retinal thickness may indicate early signs of diseases.
- Study analyzed over 50,000 eyes.
- Found connections to Type 2 diabetes, dementia, and multiple sclerosis.
- AI was utilized to create detailed retinal maps.
- 294 genes linked to retinal thickness identified.
Sydney, Feb 5 (NationPress) Retinal thickness may serve as an early warning sign for conditions such as Type 2 diabetes and dementia, according to a study conducted by a team of international researchers led by Australians on Wednesday.
The study, spearheaded by the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI) in Melbourne, examined over 50,000 eyes to explore the relationship between retinal variations and different health issues, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
By generating detailed maps of the retina, researchers discovered that retinal thinning correlates with prevalent diseases, including Type 2 diabetes, dementia, and multiple sclerosis (MS).
The retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue layer at the rear of the eye, is part of the central nervous system, which encompasses the brain and spinal cord.
Both dementia and diabetes, along with MS, are associated with the degradation or disruption of this system.
Retinal thinning, also known as lattice degeneration, signifies the gradual loss of retinal tissue.
Vicki Jackson, the head of the research team from WEHI, stated that their discoveries indicate that retinal imaging can be a valuable tool for gaining insights into the central nervous system and for managing these diseases.
“The fine-scale measurements from our maps reveal vital new insights into the links between retinal thinning and a variety of common health conditions,” Jackson commented.
“This research highlights the potential for retinal thickness to serve as a diagnostic biomarker that may assist in identifying and tracking the progression of several diseases,” she added.
The research team, which included contributors from both the UK and the US, utilized AI to generate the 50,000 maps with measurements taken at over 29,000 points across each retina.
This detailed mapping enabled the identification of 294 genes that affect retinal thickness and are significant in disease manifestation.
Researchers mentioned that these findings pave the way for utilizing routine eye imaging as a method for screening and managing various health issues.
