Pathways To Treatment In Blinding Genetic Retinal Eye Diseases
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$556,956.00
Summary
Blinding eye diseases with genetic contributing factors affecting the retina or light-sensing part of the eye, damage the vision of millions of people worldwide. The vision impairment is irreversible, untreatable, and worsens with age. In this project, we will use technological breakthroughs in genome correction and sequencing, in combination with stem cell and mouse model applications, to develop pathways to treatment of these currently incurable diseases.
The vision we rely on every day to read and recognise faces depends upon the health of the central portion of our retina, the macula. Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in Australia and the western world. Researchers at the Australian National University are collaborating to bring a new test for AMD severity to the market within 3 years. The objective is to provide doctors with a rapid, cost-effective tool to help them manage treatment.
Using Pharmacogenetics To Personalize Treatment Outcome To Ranibizumab (Lucentis) For The Eye Disease Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$623,891.00
Summary
The drug Lucentis has revolutionized the treatment of age-related macular degeneration, one of the commonest causes of severe vision loss in Australia. Unfortunately, up to 25% of patients continue to lose vision despite this treatment. We will use the latest gene chip technology to identify the genetic variant responsible for this poor response. Having this information will allow us to personalise treatment for the patient leading to improvement in their vision.
Comparing The Effectiveness Of Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty With Topical Medication For The Treatment Of Primary Angle Closure Glaucoma: A Multicentred, Prospective, Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$639,888.00
Summary
The main treatment of glaucoma, an eye condition which causes peripheral vision loss and blindness, involves the use of eye drops. However, these are expensive, have considerable side effects, and impact negatively on daily living. Laser has recently been proposed as an alternative treatment and, in this project, we will investigate the effectiveness of laser compared to medication. We anticipate laser will be more cost effective, safer, and have a positive impact on quality of life compared to ....The main treatment of glaucoma, an eye condition which causes peripheral vision loss and blindness, involves the use of eye drops. However, these are expensive, have considerable side effects, and impact negatively on daily living. Laser has recently been proposed as an alternative treatment and, in this project, we will investigate the effectiveness of laser compared to medication. We anticipate laser will be more cost effective, safer, and have a positive impact on quality of life compared to eye drops.Read moreRead less