New Discovery in the Cause of Congenital Nystagmus

LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. - Sept. 14, 2024 - PRLog -- A groundbreaking study has revealed a new cause for congenital nystagmus, a condition where the eyes make uncontrollable, rapid movements. Historically, this disorder has been attributed to issues in the brain's oculomotor system. However, recent research shows that the root cause may lie in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye.

The study, conducted on mice with congenital stationary night blindness (CSNB), found that retinal ganglion cells – the neurons responsible for transmitting visual information from the eye to the brain – fire in a synchronized, rhythmic pattern. This oscillation in the retina drives the eye movements seen in nystagmus, suggesting the disorder may be caused by a malfunction within the retina itself.

Lead researcher Dr, Astrid Larsen explained, "For decades, we believed nystagmus was purely a neurological issue. Our findings show that retinal activity plays a much bigger role than previously thought."

This discovery could lead to new, more targeted treatments for individuals with congenital nystagmus, offering hope for improved vision and quality of life.

Key Findings:

• Retinal ganglion cells in the eye exhibit synchronized firing patterns that lead to the involuntary eye movements characteristic of congenital nystagmus.
• These findings were made in mouse models of congenital stationary night blindness, providing new insights into how the disorder may develop.
• This research challenges the long-standing belief that nystagmus is solely a brain-based disorder, emphasizing the importance of retinal mechanisms in its cause.

About Congenital Nystagmus Congenital nystagmus is a lifelong condition where the eyes move rapidly and uncontrollably, often in a horizontal direction. It affects about 0.2% of the population and can lead to reduced vision. Unlike acquired nystagmus, which occurs later in life, individuals with congenital nystagmus typically do not experience visual disturbances like oscillopsia (the perception of a shaky visual field).

This study represents a major step forward in our understanding of congenital nystagmus and its underlying mechanisms, paving the way for future research and potential therapies.

More information can be found at: https://nystagmus.website/nystagmus-insights-from-recent-...

For media inquiries,

Dr, Astrid Larsen

https://nystagmus.website

hello@nystagmus.website