Dongshin University Department of Optometry Publishes Paper in International Molecular Science Journal

Jo Yeon-kyung, Department of Optometry, Dongshin University. Photo by Dongshin University

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Jo Hyung-joo] Dongshin University announced on the 4th that Jo Yeon-kyung (39, female), a doctoral student in the Department of Optometry, published a paper titled "Research on Trends in Treatments for Age-related Macular Degeneration" as the first author in the international journal "International Journal of Molecular Sciences."

Under the joint supervision of Professor Jeon In-cheol from the Department of Optometry and Professor Park Dae-hoon from the Department of Nursing, the paper classified the causes and treatments of age-related macular degeneration and studied future treatment directions.

The risk factors causing age-related macular degeneration were analyzed to include history of cataract surgery, smoking, family history, hypertension, obesity, as well as blue light exposure from prolonged use of smartphones and LED lighting.

In particular, blue light was found to promote retinal cell death, leading to vision deterioration or, in severe cases, complete loss of central vision.

Although there are treatment methods such as laser therapy, anti-inflammatory drugs, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor agents, and natural substance-based treatments, complete cure is currently impossible; therefore, symptom control using natural substance treatments in the early to middle stages of age-related macular degeneration was found to be desirable.

Jo is currently conducting follow-up research investigating the causes of retinal cell death induced by blue light and the effectiveness of natural substances in treating age-related macular degeneration.

Jo said, "Age-related macular degeneration is increasing worldwide, and the number of patients with blindness due to this is also rising," adding, "We plan to continue research to provide basic data for preventing macular degeneration."

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