Anti-vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-B As A Biologic For Treating Eye Disease
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$464,295.00
Summary
We plan to show that an engineered antibody fragment against vascular endothelial growth factor-B is an effective therapeutic drug for two eye diseases, corneal neovascularization and age-related macular degeneration. The innovative aspects of this approach are that it may be safer, and have a different spectrum of activity, than existing ophthalmic anti-angiogenic agents. Furthermore, it may be effective for corneal disease when administered as an eye-drop.
A Non-cytotoxic Approach To Reduce Ocular Fibrosis Following Surgery In Glaucoma
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$586,979.00
Summary
Glaucoma surgery often leads to scar formation and blindness. We have identified a novel protein (NADPH oxidase 4; Nox4) which promotes scar formation in the eye. Lack of Nox4 in a mouse models reduces scar formation. We have demonstrated that a ‘repurposed’ drug which is currently used to treat lung diseases can also block Nox4 in the eye. We aim to determine whether this drug can be used as a novel therapy for vision loss after glaucoma surgery.