Brief plain language background
The cornea is the transparent window of tissue situated at the front of the eye. It protects the eye from the external environment and its curved symmetrical shape allows it to focus light onto the retina.
However, due to ‘spelling mistakes’ in the genetic code (mutations), some individuals suffer from Inherited Corneal Disease (ICD) which causes their corneal tissue to lose its transparency and/or shape, leading to severe loss of vision or even blindness.
What problem/knowledge gap does it help address
Currently, the most effective solution for these conditions is cornea transplant surgery. However, with a waiting list of 12.7 million people, there is a worldwide shortage of corneas. For every 70 people needing a transplant, only 1 cornea is available.
Additionally, as a transplant involves introducing foreign tissue into the eye, there is a risk of the body rejecting the transplant, occurring in about one third of corneal transplants.
Aim of the research project
To develop a treatment for inherited corneal dystrophies that could replace corneal transplant by correcting the causative gene mutation.
Key procedures/Objectives (in laymen terms)
- Develop a dissolvable membrane containing nanoneedles – tiny painless needles that can enter cells without causing damage.
- Use the nanoneedle membrane to correct the mutations with gene editing techniques.
- Evaluate the safety and efficacy of the corneal nanoinjection using several models.
Potential impact on people with sight loss
Developing an alternative to corneal transplantation could offer more people better treatment of inherited corneal diseases. Availability would not be limited to donor supply as membranes could be manufactured, which would also reduce immune rejection risk.