Gene Therapy and the Future of Retinal Care – Featuring Dr. John Siano
At ReFocus Eye Health, we are dedicated to fostering collaboration among our network of over 140 ophthalmologists and optometrists. Through The ReFocus Roundtable, our new newsletter, we highlight the groundbreaking work of our specialists, ensuring patients receive cutting-edge eye care. In this issue, we spotlight Dr. John Siano, a vitreoretinal surgeon who brings his expertise in gene therapy to the forefront of retinal disease treatment.
A Glimpse Into the Future: Gene Therapy for Retinal Disease
Dr. Siano’s article, Gene Therapy: A Future Frontier in the Treatment of Retinal Disease, explores an emerging and promising approach to vision restoration.
Key Takeaways from the Article :
- Photoreceptors & Vision Loss – The retina’s photoreceptors are crucial for converting light into electrical signals for the brain. Genetic mutations or damage can impair this process, leading to progressive vision loss.
- How Gene Therapy Works – Gene therapy aims to modify or replace dysfunctional genes within these cells, either through direct subretinal injections or intravitreal diffusion.
Two Main Strategies:
- Gene Replacement Therapy – Introduces a functioning gene to replace a defective one, potentially halting vision loss in inherited retinal diseases.
- Gene Expression Therapy – Stimulates the production of beneficial proteins to combat conditions like age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
FDA-Approved Advances – The 2017 approval of Luxturna marked a breakthrough, offering hope to children with Leber Congenital Amaurosis, a rare genetic disorder. As research progresses, gene therapy continues to push the boundaries of ophthalmology, offering new hope for previously untreatable retinal diseases.
Meet the Expert Dr. John Siano
Dr. John Siano is a fellowship-trained vitreoretinal surgeon with a deep commitment to advancing retinal care through both clinical practice and research. He specializes in managing complex conditions like diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration, ensuring his patients receive the most effective and innovative treatments available.
Dr. Siano currently sees patients at New England Retina Associates, with offices in Trumbull, Hamden, Westport, Old Greenwich, and Refocus Eye Health Waterbury.
Collaboration at the Heart of ReFocus Eye Health
The ReFocus Roundtable is more than just a newsletter—it’s a platform for sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration among our esteemed specialists. By connecting our network’s expertise, we aim to elevate patient outcomes and advance the field of ophthalmology.
Stay tuned for more insights from our trusted experts as we continue to spotlight innovations in eye care. If you’d like to learn more about Dr. Siano’s work or schedule a consultation, visit New England Retina Associates.
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