Also in the News…
From corneal implant candidates to an overview of the current anti-VEGF landscape, these are the news stories and studies that caught our attention this week…
Alun Evans | | News
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LittleT889, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons
iCare MAIA microperimeter. iCare, an ophthalmic diagnostics subsidiary of the Revenio Group, has launched a new version of its MAIA microperimeter. Retaining all the key features of the original, the latest model boasts an intuitive user interface on a 15’’ multi-touch display and a 60° TrueColor field of view. Notably, clinicians are able to import data from the previous model to ensure full continuity with a patient’s clinical history. Link
Corneal implant candidates. Pantheon Vision announced the completion of a third “productive and successful meeting” with the FDA review team. “We anticipate another check in with the FDA in the spring, when we reach another milestone in the development of our advanced bioengineered solution for treating corneal blindness,” said Pantheon CEO John Sheets. Link
Retinal degeneration study. Researchers from Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia, Milan, Italy, have developed a membrane-targeted photoswitch capable of reinstating natural ON and OFF light responses in the degenerate retina. In mouse models, Ziapin2 successfully reactivated retinal ganglion cells, improving light-driven behavior and optomotor reflexes by modulating neuronal capacitance without genetic modification or implants. The team believes this non-invasive therapy could pave the way for future treatments to restore functional vision in patients with retinal degeneration. Link
Optometrists’ management of nAMD. A recent Wales-based study by The College of Optometrists looks at the value of having optometrists play a greater role in managing neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and glaucoma in UK primary care. The study revealed significant reductions in patient wait times, which would allow ophthalmologists to focus on complex cases while maintaining cost-effectiveness and efficiency. Despite pointing out potential administrative and IT support challenges, the study supports expanding optometry-led eye care services to improve patient access and alleviate hospital burdens. Link
The anti-VEGF landscape. An IOVS study provides an overview of anti-VEGF therapies as well as the real-world challenges that are encountered by physicians in maintaining therapeutic outcomes. In addition to evaluating currently available anti-VEGF therapies, the Washington University School of Medicine researchers also investigate VEGF inhibitors that are still in clinical development. Link
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