Description:
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Retinal ischemia
- Vascular disease
Abstract
USC researchers have developed a novel method for targeted oxygen therapy for diseases that cause retinal ischemia. Their technique employs an implantable oxygenator with an electrolyte reservoir capable of performing electrolysis, thereby increasing the surrounding oxygen levels. This method may prevent vision distortion and blindness in patients that develop retinal ischemia from conditions including diabetic retinopathy and other vascular diseases.
Benefit
- Prevents blindness and visual impairment from diabetic retinopathy and other vascular diseases
- Treats underlying pathology rather than symptoms
Market Application
Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of blindness in the United States. The condition causes vision loss because oxygen deprivation leads to the formation of new blood vessels, which hemorrhage into the vitreous body. In later stages of the disease, continued vessel growth and scarring can lead to retinal detachment and glaucoma. Current approaches focus on treating symptoms rather than addressing the underlying pathology. However, oxygen therapy delivered to the retina has the potential to stop this process prior to these symptoms developing.
Publications
Other
Stage of Development
- Proof of concept demonstrated
- Tested in vitro
- Available for worldwide and exclusive license