New Research Reveals COVID-19’s Potential to Damage the Eye

The Study

A new study published in April 2024 in PLOS Pathogens found that the COVID-19 virus can breach the retinal barrier and potentially damage the eye. Led by Pawan Kumar Singh, Ph.D., an assistant professor of ophthalmology at the University of Missouri School of Medicine, the study aimed to determine COVID-19 transmission through the eye and inhalation to determine the virus’ impact on the eye.

The Findings

By studying mice infected with COVID-19 through inhalation or directly into the cells lining the blood-retinal barrier, Singh and his colleagues discovered that COVID-19 can infect the retina even when the virus doesn’t enter through the surface of the eye. Additionally, COVID-19 that resulted from nasal passage infection was able to infect the cells of the blood-retinal barrier.

Researchers revealed that the longer viral remnants remain in the eye, the risk of damage to the retina and visual function increases. Furthermore, immunocompromised patients or those with hypertension or diabetes may experience worse outcomes for COVID-19 associated ocular symptoms. The goal now is to better understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms of how the COVID-19 virus breaches the blood-retinal barrier and to better treat COVID-19 induced eye complications before a patient’s vision is compromised.

Recommendations

For those diagnosed with COVID-19, we recommend that you ask your ophthalmologist to check for signs of pathological changes to the retina. Even asymptomatic individuals could suffer from damage in the eyes over time because of COVID-19 associated complications.

Implications

This finding is significant as it increases our understanding of the long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Earlier, researchers were primarily focused on the ocular surface exposure of the virus. However, this research now reveals that COVID-19 not only reaches the eye during systemic infection but also induces a hyperinflammatory response in the retina, causing cell death in the blood-retinal barrier.

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Advice from Nancy Lurker, CEO and President of EyePoint Pharmaceuticals

Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Women Can Make it to the Top

Nancy Lurker, CEO, and President of EyePoint Pharmaceuticals is an industry veteran with ample experience in leadership roles. In a recent interview with Managed Healthcare Executive’s Briana Contreras, Lurker shared insights on how to reach the C-suite, including advice targeted towards women in healthcare and other roles. She highlights the importance of being a well-rounded leader and understanding the business segments you serve.

Addressing Patient Needs through Eye Care

EyePoint Pharmaceuticals focuses on developing innovative therapies to address patient needs through eye care. With a profound understanding of how diseases impact patients’ lives, the company’s mission is to provide treatments that improve outcomes and quality of life for patients with ocular diseases.

Running a Biopharmaceutical Company

To run a biopharmaceutical company, Lurker stresses the importance of developing strong relationships with all of your team members, including the board of directors. It’s also essential to create an excellent product strategy, which is the foundation for a successful biopharmaceutical company. Strong product differentiation and excellent products are the drivers for long-term success, she adds.

Originally Post From https://www.managedhealthcareexecutive.com/view/study-finds-covid-19-may-damage-vision

Study Reveals COVID-19’s Shocking Potential to Impact Vision