The ultrastructural basis of corneal dysfunction and the development and optimization of novel therapeutic strategies
Lead Research Organisation:
Cardiff University
Department Name: Optometry and Vision Sciences
Abstract
The cornea is the transparent window at the front of the eye and is its main focussing element. To fulfil its role it has to be very transparent, very strong and precisely shaped. Transparency, strength and shape are all controlled by the collagen fibrils that make up the cornea, and by the small molecules between them. This happens at different structural levels from the molecular level upwards: collagen molecules form fibrils, which in turn form larger structures called lamellae, which are then stacked up to form the tissue itself. From our previous work and work done by others, we know a lot about why the cornea is transparent and are beginning to understand the arrangement of collagen lamellae that gives rise to the cornea's shape and thus its focusing abilities. However, the precise details are still not known and, until they are, it will not be possible to understand why, in numerous diseases of the cornea, or after different types of surgery on the cornea - including laser surgery - transparency, strength and/or shape are abnormal and vision is lost or very blurred. We will use several new and exciting 3-D biological imaging and powerful X-ray measuring techniques, to explain how collagen fibrils and cells are arranged in the cornea to make it transparent, and how other proteins control this arrangement. We will also explain at a higher structural level how lamellae are arranged to provide form and strength. This will allow us to construct computer models from which to predict changes in corneal shape following given surgical incisions or other treatments to help inform surgeons. We will then explain what goes wrong in several important corneal diseases and investigate methods of preventing or correcting these changes, for example by using stem cell therapy or protein crosslinking. The methods will also allow us to explain why, when the cornea is wounded, tissue strength and transparency are compromised. Again, methods to improve this wound healing such as those mentioned above will be investigated, with the aim of strengthening the cornea whilst preserving transparency. Finally, several research groups in different countries are trying to develop a biological artificial cornea as there is, and is likely to continue to be, a worldwide shortage of donor corneal tissue for graft surgery. Synthetic biology depends on understanding how nature utilises the constituents of a tissue to achieve its vital properties. In the case of the cornea, the knowledge that we will obtain by elucidating the exact relationship between structure and function will be invaluable, and will allow us to collaborate with these groups to drive their constructs more quickly towards a fully functioning artificial cornea.
Technical Summary
The cornea of the eye is a uniquely transparent, exquisitely shaped tissue whose functionality depends heavily on the hierarchical ultrastructures and complex microanatomy of its cells and extracellular matrix. Despite the importance of the cornea for vision, the basis of corneal transparency and shape, and their compromise due to injury or disease, are only now starting to be understood in any detail. Our ultimate objective is to build upon the success of our previous studies and relate loss of transparency and changes in corneal shape/astigmatism to tissue micro- and ultra-structure. This will be achieved by taking advantage of recent advances in microfocus synchrotron x-ray scattering, electron tomography, multiphoton laser scanning microscopy and volume scanning electron microscopy to study human foetal corneas, normal and pathological adult corneas, post-surgical corneas and artificial corneal constructs. Our aims are to (i) model corneal transparency at the cellular and fibrillar level, and to extend this to explain the loss of transparency in corneal wounds and diseases; (ii) characterise the full three-dimensional structure of the cornea and explain the structural basis of astigmatism, and demonstrate how surgical treatments can be modeled to predict the cornea's macroscopic behaviour by finite element analysis; (iii) develop and better understand new methodologies for treating or stabilizing corneas, such as cell-based therapies for improving transparency and mechanical strength in corneal wounds and crosslinking methods to stabilize corneas to prevent ectasia; (iv) use the new three-dimensional structural information to assess and improve different approaches being used to develop biological artificial corneal replacements.
Planned Impact
The main non-academic beneficiaries will be the patients themselves. Our work on corneal pathologies will aid understanding of the disease mechanisms and drive the development of better treatments from which patients will benefit. Our work on refractive surgery should improve the outcome of these procedures (stronger flap adherence, less likelihood of post-LASIK ectasia or induced astigmatism) and lead to safer treatments, more predictable clinical outcome and better patient satisfaction. We anticipate our work on corneal crosslinking extending the number of keratoconus patients who can undergo the treatment, while our research into microwave therapy may offer new hope to keratoconus who cannot undergo LASIK and whose only current treatment option is corneal transplant.
Other beneficiaries will include our anticipated commercial partners, who would be involved in clinical trials prior to marketing the methods for stabilizing the post-surgical wounds; this would lead to commercial benefit for the company and economic benefit for the UK. Refractive surgery has been carried out on millions of people worldwide, not always without post-operative complications. If we can develop better methods to carry out such surgery, or find methods of improving the outcomes of the current surgery, there will be a huge worldwide benefit to public health. Finally, there is a pressing need for the development of artificial corneal tissue whose properties mimic the natural tissue. Our work to develop a biological artificial cornea will be in collaboration with groups in other countries who are leading the field in this area. If we succeed, it will have a lasting impact on global quality of life, particularly in developing countries where the shortage of donor tissue is already critical.
Timescales are different for different projects within the proposal. For example, our work on methods of epithelial removal prior to corneal crosslinking had an immediate impact on practice, and this should be the case when this work is continued, with the aim of finding a method that does not require epithelial removal. Developing a suitable method to stabilize LASIK flaps, for example by using oral mucosal cells, will take 5 years, including animal trials, and clinical trials would follow. Investigating alternative methods of refractive correction, such as the use of microwaves, may have an impact within a few years, as clinical trials are already underway. Similarly, the corneal constructs created by Professor Griffith are also in early clinical trials, and the optimized constructs arising from our joint research will follow into trials. Finally, developing computer models to predict the outcome of corneal surgeries is a longer-term outcome with widespread potential benefit and may take up to 10 years.
Other beneficiaries will include our anticipated commercial partners, who would be involved in clinical trials prior to marketing the methods for stabilizing the post-surgical wounds; this would lead to commercial benefit for the company and economic benefit for the UK. Refractive surgery has been carried out on millions of people worldwide, not always without post-operative complications. If we can develop better methods to carry out such surgery, or find methods of improving the outcomes of the current surgery, there will be a huge worldwide benefit to public health. Finally, there is a pressing need for the development of artificial corneal tissue whose properties mimic the natural tissue. Our work to develop a biological artificial cornea will be in collaboration with groups in other countries who are leading the field in this area. If we succeed, it will have a lasting impact on global quality of life, particularly in developing countries where the shortage of donor tissue is already critical.
Timescales are different for different projects within the proposal. For example, our work on methods of epithelial removal prior to corneal crosslinking had an immediate impact on practice, and this should be the case when this work is continued, with the aim of finding a method that does not require epithelial removal. Developing a suitable method to stabilize LASIK flaps, for example by using oral mucosal cells, will take 5 years, including animal trials, and clinical trials would follow. Investigating alternative methods of refractive correction, such as the use of microwaves, may have an impact within a few years, as clinical trials are already underway. Similarly, the corneal constructs created by Professor Griffith are also in early clinical trials, and the optimized constructs arising from our joint research will follow into trials. Finally, developing computer models to predict the outcome of corneal surgeries is a longer-term outcome with widespread potential benefit and may take up to 10 years.
Organisations
- Cardiff University (Collaboration, Lead Research Organisation)
- Linkoping University (Collaboration)
- St Thomas' Hospital (Collaboration)
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) (Collaboration)
- Geneva University Hospitals (Collaboration)
- The Open Eyes Foundation (Collaboration)
- DIAMOND LIGHT SOURCE (Collaboration)
- Veni Vidi (Collaboration)
- Cleveland Clinic (Collaboration)
- UNIVERSITY OF ABERDEEN (Collaboration)
- Colchester Hospital University NHS Foundation Trust (Collaboration)
- Stanford University (Collaboration)
- UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL (Collaboration)
- MOORFIELDS EYE HOSPITAL (Collaboration)
- Universidade de São Paulo (Collaboration)
- Royal Liverpool University Hospital (Collaboration)
- Bristol Zoo Gardens (Collaboration)
- University College London (Collaboration)
- University of Alabama at Birmingham (Collaboration)
- Newcastle University (Collaboration)
- Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine (Collaboration)
- University of Dundee (Collaboration)
- UNIVERSITY OF EXETER (Collaboration)
- Singleton Hospital (Collaboration)
- Weizmann Institute of Science (Collaboration)
- Life Technologies (Collaboration)
- Bristol Clinical Commissioning Group (Collaboration)
- University of Zaragoza (Collaboration)
Publications
Abahussin M
(2013)
A microscopy study of the structural features of post-LASIK human corneas.
in PloS one
Abass A
(2015)
Transverse depth-dependent changes in corneal collagen lamellar orientation and distribution.
in Journal of the Royal Society, Interface
Abass A
(2017)
SAXS4COLL: an integrated software tool for analysing fibrous collagen-based tissues.
in Journal of applied crystallography
Aldahlawi NH
(2015)
Standard versus accelerated riboflavin-ultraviolet corneal collagen crosslinking: Resistance against enzymatic digestion.
in Journal of cataract and refractive surgery
Aldahlawi NH
(2016)
Enzymatic Resistance of Corneas Crosslinked Using Riboflavin in Conjunction With Low Energy, High Energy, and Pulsed UVA Irradiation Modes.
in Investigative ophthalmology & visual science
Aldahlawi NH
(2016)
An investigation into corneal enzymatic resistance following epithelium-off and epithelium-on corneal cross-linking protocols.
in Experimental eye research
Alhamad Tariq
(2012)
Clinical and laboratory investigation of the biomechanical properties of the cornea
Bell JS
(2022)
Tropocollagen springs allow collagen fibrils to stretch elastically.
in Acta biomaterialia
Bell JS
(2018)
The hierarchical response of human corneal collagen to load.
in Acta biomaterialia
Boote C
(2020)
Scleral structure and biomechanics.
in Progress in retinal and eye research
Campbell Stephanie
(2017)
Keratoconus in Down's syndrome
Chan W
(2016)
Topical delivery of a Rho-kinase inhibitor to the cornea via mucoadhesive film
in European Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Coudrillier B
(2015)
Glaucoma-related Changes in the Mechanical Properties and Collagen Micro-architecture of the Human Sclera.
in PloS one
Coudrillier B
(2015)
Collagen structure and mechanical properties of the human sclera: analysis for the effects of age.
in Journal of biomechanical engineering
Coudrillier B
(2015)
Effects of age and diabetes on scleral stiffness.
in Journal of biomechanical engineering
Davidson AE
(2014)
The pathogenesis of keratoconus.
in Eye (London, England)
Dooley Erin P.
(2012)
Ultrastructural evaluation of pathological and acutely injured mammalian corneas
Feneck E
(2018)
A comparative study of the elastic fibre system within the mouse and human cornea
in Experimental Eye Research
Feneck EM
(2019)
Three-dimensional imaging of the extracellular matrix and cell interactions in the developing prenatal mouse cornea.
in Scientific reports
Feneck EM
(2020)
Developmental abnormalities in the cornea of a mouse model for Marfan syndrome.
in Experimental eye research
Gardner SJ
(2015)
Measuring the Refractive Index of Bovine Corneal Stromal Cells Using Quantitative Phase Imaging.
in Biophysical journal
Gardner Steven
(2015)
Studies of corneal structure and transparency
Geraghty B
(2015)
Mechanical Properties of Aging Soft Tissues
Hayashi R
(2017)
Coordinated generation of multiple ocular-like cell lineages and fabrication of functional corneal epithelial cell sheets from human iPS cells.
in Nature protocols
Hayes S
(2018)
Use of Donors Predisposed by Corneal Collagen Cross-linking in Penetrating Keratoplasty for Treating Patients With Keratoconus.
in American journal of ophthalmology
Hayes S
(2020)
The effect of bacteriochlorophyll derivative WST-D and near infrared light on the molecular and fibrillar architecture of the corneal stroma.
in Scientific reports
Hayes S
(2016)
A study of stromal riboflavin absorption in ex vivo porcine corneas using new and existing delivery protocols for corneal cross-linking.
in Acta ophthalmologica
Hayes S
(2017)
The structural response of the cornea to changes in stromal hydration.
in Journal of the Royal Society, Interface
Hayes S
(2015)
The structural and optical properties of type III human collagen biosynthetic corneal substitutes.
in Acta biomaterialia
Ho LT
(2014)
A comparison of glycosaminoglycan distributions, keratan sulphate sulphation patterns and collagen fibril architecture from central to peripheral regions of the bovine cornea.
in Matrix biology : journal of the International Society for Matrix Biology
Islam MM
(2018)
Biomaterials-enabled cornea regeneration in patients at high risk for rejection of donor tissue transplantation.
in NPJ Regenerative medicine
Jangamreddy J
(2018)
Short peptide analogs as alternatives to collagen in pro-regenerative corneal implants
in Acta Biomaterialia
Jones Frances E.
(2013)
The corneal endothelium in development, disease and surgery
Jones Hannah
(2014)
Connective tissue in the human optic nerve head
Kamma-Lorger CS
(2016)
Role of Decorin Core Protein in Collagen Organisation in Congenital Stromal Corneal Dystrophy (CSCD).
in PloS one
Koudouna E
(2019)
Ultrastructural variability of the juxtacanalicular tissue along the inner wall of Schlemm's canal.
in Molecular vision
Koudouna Elena
(2013)
Structural and biochemical investigations of the cornea and the trabecular meshwork
Lewis PN
(2019)
Elastin Content and Distribution in Endothelial Keratoplasty Tissue Determines Direction of Scrolling.
in American journal of ophthalmology
Lewis PN
(2016)
Three-dimensional arrangement of elastic fibers in the human corneal stroma.
in Experimental eye research
Ma Y
(2018)
Journal for Modeling in Ophthalmology
in A simple mathematical model for collagen fibril organization in normal and keratoconic corneas
Meek KM
(2013)
Corneal cross-linking--a review.
in Ophthalmic & physiological optics : the journal of the British College of Ophthalmic Opticians (Optometrists)
Meek KM
(2018)
Biomechanics of the eye.
Meek KM
(2015)
Corneal structure and transparency.
in Progress in retinal and eye research
Meek KM
(2020)
X-Ray Diffraction Imaging of Corneal Ultrastructure.
in Methods in molecular biology (Clifton, N.J.)
Mohammadvali A,
(2018)
Biomechanics of the Eye.
| Description | St Thomas'/Cardiff protocol for corneal crosslinking |
| Geographic Reach | Multiple continents/international |
| Policy Influence Type | Influenced training of practitioners or researchers |
| Impact | Since the advent of corneal-crosslinking (CXL) in 1999, as a therapy for halting keratoconus progression, over 30 modifications to the standard therapy are now in existence. The modified protocols aim to improve patient comfort, reduce patient treatment times and reduce the likelihood of infection, however their efficacy in many cases not been validated prior to use. Modifications to the technique include non-removal of the corneal epithelium, the use of a wide variety of riboflavin solutions and the application of different Ultraviolet-A irradiation intensities, modes (pulsed or continuous) and exposure times. Since 2005, we have been working with Prof David O'Brart at St Thomas's Hospital to test the efficacy of new (St Thomas's/Cardiff Protocol) and existing CXL protocols in vitro. This led to a successful clinical trial of the St Thomas'/Cardiff protocol (ISRCTN04451470). In addition to our published research influencing surgical practice, our investigations into the structural basis of corneal cross-linking have led to a greater understanding of exactly how the therapy works. Such information is vital for the development of computer models aimed at predicting the outcome of CXL protocols associated with refractive surgery. Such models have recently become an essential component in the quest to gain FDA approval for the use of CXL in America. |
| Description | UK Crosslinking Consortium |
| Geographic Reach | Multiple continents/international |
| Policy Influence Type | Participation in a guidance/advisory committee |
| Impact | n 2013 we established a UK CXL Consortium to bring together ophthalmologists and vision scientists with the aim of standardising CXL in the UK and developing a code of best practice. The consortium now boasts over 50 members. With the support of the consortium and the Medical Research Council, Cardiff University are now funding the development of a national CXL database which will enable ophthalmologists to collect clinical information on patients being considered for CXL and track their treatment and outcomes. It is envisaged that the database will be used as a basis for clinical care, outcome analysis, clinical audit, revalidation and research. NHS England has recently been pitched for specialised services funding to start CXL in approximately 10 regional UK centres to address the postcode lottery of CXL provision in the NHS. A key feature of this pitch was our database which is considered essential for auditing outcomes. |
| Description | BBSRC Japan Partnering Award |
| Amount | £46,000 (GBP) |
| Funding ID | BB/R021244/1 |
| Organisation | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 04/2018 |
| End | 03/2021 |
| Description | Follow on Fund |
| Amount | £144,900 (GBP) |
| Funding ID | BB/N022106/1 |
| Organisation | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 05/2017 |
| End | 04/2018 |
| Description | Newton Fund |
| Amount | £31,500 (GBP) |
| Organisation | British Council |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 05/2016 |
| End | 07/2017 |
| Description | Pathfinder |
| Amount | £7,203 (GBP) |
| Funding ID | BB/P011969/1 |
| Organisation | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 10/2016 |
| End | 11/2016 |
| Description | Research Contract |
| Amount | £828,093 (GBP) |
| Funding ID | PO 1000101930 |
| Organisation | Defence Science & Technology Laboratory (DSTL) |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 04/2016 |
| End | 03/2019 |
| Description | Research Leave Fellowship |
| Amount | £15,000 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Cardiff University |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 09/2018 |
| End | 08/2019 |
| Description | Responsive mode |
| Amount | £840,000 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 07/2015 |
| End | 07/2018 |
| Description | Sparking Impact |
| Amount | £6,000 (GBP) |
| Organisation | Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) |
| Sector | Public |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Start | 09/2013 |
| End | 02/2014 |
| Title | x-ray analysis GUI |
| Description | A new graphical user interface was developed for the analysis of x-ray diffraction data |
| Type Of Material | Biological samples |
| Provided To Others? | No |
| Impact | Paper in preparation. |
| Title | Elsheik modelling of the healthy human cornea |
| Description | Our quantitative x-ray data have been used to model the biomechanical behaviour of the human cornea. |
| Type Of Material | Computer model/algorithm |
| Year Produced | 2012 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Data helped explain the relationship between human corneal structure and shape. This work has been published. |
| Title | Grytz modelling of keratoconus cornea |
| Description | Our quantitative x-ray data have been used to model the development of keratoconus. |
| Type Of Material | Computer model/algorithm |
| Year Produced | 2012 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Data helped explain the progression of keratoconus involving a mechanism of enzymatic digestion, strain and tissue slippage. The has been presented at conferences. |
| Title | Keratoconus e-registry |
| Description | In collaboration with the UK Cross-linking consortium we developed a national database for collecting patient data relating to keratoconus progression and crosslinking outcomes. The e-registry allows the audit and effective monitoring of keratoconus progression and cross-linking protocols. The e-registry is approved by the Royal College of Ophthalmologists as a valuable means of obtaining a large, anonymised database for audit and outcomes research. A pdf link is available from the website which shows a further description of the e-registry and mentions the involvement of the UK-CXL. https://www.rcophth.ac.uk/standards-publications-research/clinical-data-sets/corneal-cross-linking-data-set/ |
| Type Of Material | Database/Collection of data |
| Year Produced | 2017 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Data collection is ongoing and when sufficient data is gathered it will be analysed. |
| Title | Pinsky modelling of keratoconus development |
| Description | Our quantitative x-ray data have been used to model the development of keratoconus.. |
| Type Of Material | Computer model/algorithm |
| Year Produced | 2015 |
| Provided To Others? | Yes |
| Impact | Data helped the development of a computer modelling system which converts discrete data points to mathematical functions which will allow better predictive response of corneal behaviour during the development of keratoconus. |
| Description | Arie Markovich |
| Organisation | Weizmann Institute of Science |
| Country | Israel |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Ultrastructural analysis of cross-linked tissue |
| Collaborator Contribution | Carried out cross-linking in rabbits |
| Impact | Peer reviewed publication in 2020: doi: 10.1038/s41598-020-66869-y |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | BJ Dupps |
| Organisation | Cleveland Clinic |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Hospitals |
| PI Contribution | Supply of corneal x-ray scattering data |
| Collaborator Contribution | Incorporation of corneal x-ray scattering data into biomechanical models |
| Impact | Our data is being used to enhance the accuracy of computer models aimed at predicting the response of the cornea to surgery. In 2018, Keith Hayes and Sally Hayes were invited by BJ Dupps (Editor) to contribute a chapter on "Corneal Stroma: collagen ultrastructure and orientation in health and disease' to his book titles 'Biomechanics of the Eye'. |
| Start Year | 2015 |
| Description | Collaboration with Bristol Zoo Gardens |
| Organisation | Bristol Zoo Gardens |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| PI Contribution | We have collected x-ray scattering data from these corneas with the aim of learning more about the relationship between corneal structure, shape and function. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Our collaborators provided post-mortem corneas from primates and other mammals. |
| Impact | Meeting abstracts and publications. Multidisciplinary: Zoology, Biophysics, Biology |
| Start Year | 2007 |
| Description | Collaboration with Farhad Hafezi (Geneva) |
| Organisation | Geneva University Hospitals |
| Country | Switzerland |
| Sector | Hospitals |
| PI Contribution | We have collected x-ray scattering data from normal and keratoconus corneas that have been previously cross-linked using riboflavin and UVA. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Prof Hafezi has been involved in the concept and design of collagen cross-linking studies involving keratoconus corneas. He also serves as an Honorary Overseas Consultant to the UK Cross-linking Consortium. |
| Impact | Multidisciplinary publication (Ophthalmology, Biophysics, Biology): doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0022405 Farhad Hafezi is a confirmed guest speaker at our 2020 UK-Cross-linking Consortium meeting which will be held in May 2020, as part of the Royal College of Ophthalmology Annual Congress. |
| Start Year | 2010 |
| Description | Collaboration with Invitrogen |
| Organisation | Life Technologies |
| Department | Invitrogen |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | Based on our world renowned expertise in electron microscopy we were approached by Invitrogen to do consultancy work involving the use of 3D SEM to characterise potential artificial corneal constructs. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Provided type III recombinant human collagen hydrogels |
| Impact | The company have gone on to develop constructs. |
| Start Year | 2014 |
| Description | Collaboration with May Griffith |
| Organisation | Linkoping University |
| Department | Regenerative Medicine |
| Country | Sweden |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Prof Griffith has developed a biological artificial cornea which is in clinical trial. We will be investigating the ultrastructure of the constructs and what changes occur in vivo. |
| Collaborator Contribution | They will provide the constructs. Joint collaborators in Aberdeen will implant the constructs into mouse eyes. |
| Impact | Multiple publications on the structure and integration of the artificial constructs which have formed the basis of clinical trials: doi: 10.1038/s41536-017-0038-8 doi: 10.1016/j.actbio.2018.01.011 doi: 10.1016/j.actbio.2018.10.009. |
| Start Year | 2012 |
| Description | Collaboration with Prof David O'Brart |
| Organisation | St Thomas' Hospital |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Hospitals |
| PI Contribution | Corneal cross-linking research is undertaken by Sally Hayes |
| Collaborator Contribution | Prof O'Brart contributes to experimental study design in our corneal cross-linking research and helps to ensure that it has the maximum clinical relevance. He is also involved in the interpretation of cross-linking data. |
| Impact | Multiple scientific publications: doi: 10.1016/j.jcrs.2015.10.004.; doi: 10.1167/iovs.17-22994.; doi.org/10.1016/j.exer.2016.10.014 Successful co-supervision of a PhD student leading to a published thesis (2018): Investigations into the potential effectiveness of new and existing corneal cross-linking therapies Based on our experimental research David O'Brart undertook a prospective clinical trial to assess the effectiveness of the St Thomas's/Cardiff cross-linking protocol compared to the standard epi-off protocol: ISRCTN04451470 DOI 10.1186/ISRCTN04451470 |
| Start Year | 2010 |
| Description | Collaboration with Prof. J. Funderburgh in University of Pittsburgh Medical Centre |
| Organisation | University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Hospitals |
| PI Contribution | collagen ultrastructural x-ray studies of scarred corneas treated with stromal stem cells |
| Collaborator Contribution | Provided wounded mouse corneas for stem cell baseline studies |
| Impact | International Collaboration Award-Early Career Researcher 2007/08, Cardiff University. Funding was allocated to Dr. Christina Kamma-Lorger to visit collaborative lab in in Pittsburgh University for 4 weeks, to receive training in corneal stem cell techniques and establishing a new collaboration (2300GBP)+ publications (see list). Multidisciplinary: Ophthalmology, Biophysics, Biology, Molecular Biology |
| Start Year | 2007 |
| Description | Diamond |
| Organisation | Diamond Light Source |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | Data collection at the Diamond Light Source and equipment development . In partnership with Diamond Light Source, Dr James Bell is leading the development of a biomechanical testing platform that will allow a wide-range of scientists to perform simultaneous x-ray scattering/biomechanical testing on a range of connective tissues. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Assisting with data collection and equipment development. Administration and publicity of the Biomechanics Facility User Network |
| Impact | Our ongoing collaboration with DLS has resulted in a large number of publications, the most recent of which are: doi: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.11.015 doi: 10.1098/rsif.2017.0062. doi: 10.1167/iovs.16-21358. The formation of a Biomechanics Facility and User Network at Diamond Light Source (https://www.diamond.ac.uk/Instruments/Soft-Condensed-Matter/small-angle/I22.html). Led by James Bell, the multi-disciplinary user network (comprising ~20 connective tissue researchers, physicists and engineers) are contributing to the design of a general purpose miromechanical testing platform that will be made freely available to scientists during their beamtime at Diamond Light Source to enhance connective tissue and materials-based research. |
| Start Year | 2007 |
| Description | Dr Ahmed ElSheikh |
| Organisation | University of Dundee |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Modelling corneal structure and biomechanics. Our structural data is being used to model corneal biomechannical behaviour. We are also working together to simultaneously monitor changes in corneal structure and stress-strain behaviour by covering corneas with a fine-particle speckle pattern and then collecting x-ray scattering data at the same time as collecting images of the corneal surface on spatially oriented cameras. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Allowed us to progress the biomechanical implications of our structural data |
| Impact | Multiple publications as co-authors: doi:10.1098/rsif.2010.0108; doi: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.11.015.; doi:10.1016/j.jmbbm.2014.11.006 |
| Start Year | 2008 |
| Description | Elena Lanchares |
| Organisation | University of Zaragoza |
| Country | Spain |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Provided advice and facilities |
| Collaborator Contribution | During a study visit to Cardiff, Elena carried out a number of biomechanical measurements on cross-linking |
| Impact | Named author on a publication |
| Start Year | 2012 |
| Description | Fibrillin knock-out mouse |
| Organisation | Universidade de São Paulo |
| Country | Brazil |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | We instigated a collaboration with Prof Lygia Pereira, Department of genetics, Sao Paulo University, Brazil who developed a mouse model for Marfans syndrome, where FBN1 gene is knocked out. We undertook biophysical studies of corneas from these mice which have helped us to understand the role of fibrillin microfibrils in maintaining corneal shape and have led to multiple publications. In 2020, we hosted a researcher from Sao Paulo visiting Cardiff University for 1-month to receive training in electron microscopy techniques (from Dr Phil Lewis) and to work on a joint research project (with Dr Phil Lewis), examining the ultrastructure of multiple connective tissues in the Marfans syndrome mouse model. The work is currently being written up for publication. |
| Collaborator Contribution | Developed the mouse model for Marfan's syndrome and supplied mouse eyes for ultrastructural studies. Sent a researcher to Cardiff University to work on a joint research project exploring the ultrastructure of other connective tissues in the Marfan's mouse model. Provide expertise in Marfan's Syndrome and its impact on other connective tissues |
| Impact | Multiple scientific papers published: doi:10.1016/j.exer.2020.108001; doi: 10.1167/iovs.16-21358. Several other papers under review and in preparation. Phil Lewis and Keith Meek hosted a visiting scientist from Sao Paulo for 1-month in 2020, providing them with training in advanced electron microscopy data collection and image techniques. Electron microscopy data was collected from multiple connective tissues in the Marfans syndrome mouse model and the work is currently being written up for publication (Title: Changes of Extracellular Matrix and Vascular Dynamics in Kidney in Marfan syndrome model). |
| Start Year | 2016 |
| Description | Hatch Mukherjee |
| Organisation | Colchester Hospital University NHS Foundation Trust |
| Department | Ophthalmology |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Public |
| PI Contribution | Provided laboratory facilities and animal tissue |
| Collaborator Contribution | Carried out the surgery and data analysis |
| Impact | One paper (2015) and one letter to the editor (2018) published: doi: 10.1007/s00417-015-3160-6; DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajo.2017.12.026 |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | Morio and Keiko |
| Organisation | Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine |
| Country | Japan |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Provision of facilities and guidance in the use of the 3D Scanning electron microscope |
| Collaborator Contribution | Carried out the research |
| Impact | one paper published (Mol Vis. 2015; 21: 1328-1339 |
| Start Year | 2014 |
| Description | Mouse implant study |
| Organisation | University of Aberdeen |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Ultrastructural analysis of RCH III corneal implants |
| Collaborator Contribution | Performing the surgery |
| Impact | Paper in presentation |
| Start Year | 2012 |
| Description | Nanosome network |
| Organisation | Cardiff University |
| Department | School of Medicine |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Developing correlative EM methods to identify exosome secretion by corneal endothelial cells |
| Collaborator Contribution | Expertise in the field of exosome biology |
| Impact | None as yet. |
| Start Year | 2017 |
| Description | Open Eyes and CXL database |
| Organisation | The Open Eyes Foundation |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Charity/Non Profit |
| PI Contribution | A keratoconus e-registry was developed as part of OpenEyes electronic patient records system: we developed content |
| Collaborator Contribution | A keratoconus e-registry was developed as part of OpenEyes electronic patient records system: they developed the web presence |
| Impact | Following a trial period at London Moorfields the e-registry went live in 2017 and is now available to any hospital with OpenEyes access. The database allows keratoconus patients progression and treatment outcomes to be monitored. |
| Start Year | 2015 |
| Description | Peter Winlove |
| Organisation | University of Exeter |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Provided facilities to carry out non-linear microscopy and contributed to resulting publication |
| Collaborator Contribution | Carried out the experimental research and data analysis |
| Impact | Exp Eye Research paper Dr James Bell from this group has moved to Cardiff and joined our group |
| Start Year | 2012 |
| Description | Prof Peter Pinsky |
| Organisation | Stanford University |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | We supplied quantitative structural data from the cornea to enable him to create a finite element model of the cornea |
| Collaborator Contribution | Peter Pinsky and his team developed computational models of collagen organisation in the healthy and diseased cornea |
| Impact | Our data has been shared with Pinksy's team and used to create mathematical models for corneal collagen organisation which have subsequently been published. In all of these publications the source of the data is acknowledged as originating from our research. In one of the publications we are listed as co-authors: A simple mathematical model for collagen fibril organization in normal and keratoconic corneas. 2018;1:7-11. |
| Start Year | 2009 |
| Description | Raphael Grytz |
| Organisation | University of Alabama at Birmingham |
| Country | United States |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Supply of x-ray scattering data obtained from normal and keratoconus corneas |
| Collaborator Contribution | Incorporation of x-ray scattering data into computational models aimed at predicting keratoconus progression |
| Impact | The work has been presented at several international conferences |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | UK Cross-linking (UK-CXL) Consortium |
| Organisation | Moorfields Eye Hospital |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Hospitals |
| PI Contribution | We set up the consortium in 2013 and Sally Hayes continue to manage it. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The aims of the consortium are: (1) to provide a forum for ophthalmologists and vision scientists to develop research collaborations and co-ordinated multi-centre studies, (2) establish a code of best practice for corneal cross-linking in order to standardise the treatment and its measurement outcomes and (3) provide information and advice to national bodies about developments in corneal cross-linking. The consortium currently comprises 63 UK-based ophthalmologists, optometrists and vision scientist members committed to achieving these aims. The founders of the cross-linking treatment also serve as honorary international advisors to the Consortium. |
| Impact | 1. Hosted the UK Cross-linking conference, Birmingham, 2016 2. Developed a National Keratoconus Database for the recording of cross-linking outcomes 3. Collaborative multidisciplinary publications (biophysics and ophthalmology): doi: 10.1167/iovs.17-22994.; doi: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.10.014. 4. 4. Sally Hayes submitted a letter to Health Technology Wales on behalf of the UK Cross-linking Consortium, providing evidence of the cost-effectiveness of corneal cross-linking. Sally was subsequently invited to serve as an independent, external expert reviewer for the Health Technology Wales (HTW) Evidence Appraisal Review of 'Clinical and cost effectiveness of epithelium-off corneal crosslinking to treat adults and children with keratoconus' to provide feedback on their report. She was also invited to attend the HTW Appraisal Panel Meeting (March 2021) to assist the panel in reaching an informed decision. In May 2021 HTW announced their decision to support the provision of corneal cross-linking on the NHS in Wales. The support of the UK-CXL Consortium was also acknowledged in HTW report. |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | UK Cross-linking (UK-CXL) Consortium |
| Organisation | NHS Bristol |
| Department | Bristol Eye Hospital |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Hospitals |
| PI Contribution | We set up the consortium in 2013 and Sally Hayes continue to manage it. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The aims of the consortium are: (1) to provide a forum for ophthalmologists and vision scientists to develop research collaborations and co-ordinated multi-centre studies, (2) establish a code of best practice for corneal cross-linking in order to standardise the treatment and its measurement outcomes and (3) provide information and advice to national bodies about developments in corneal cross-linking. The consortium currently comprises 63 UK-based ophthalmologists, optometrists and vision scientist members committed to achieving these aims. The founders of the cross-linking treatment also serve as honorary international advisors to the Consortium. |
| Impact | 1. Hosted the UK Cross-linking conference, Birmingham, 2016 2. Developed a National Keratoconus Database for the recording of cross-linking outcomes 3. Collaborative multidisciplinary publications (biophysics and ophthalmology): doi: 10.1167/iovs.17-22994.; doi: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.10.014. 4. 4. Sally Hayes submitted a letter to Health Technology Wales on behalf of the UK Cross-linking Consortium, providing evidence of the cost-effectiveness of corneal cross-linking. Sally was subsequently invited to serve as an independent, external expert reviewer for the Health Technology Wales (HTW) Evidence Appraisal Review of 'Clinical and cost effectiveness of epithelium-off corneal crosslinking to treat adults and children with keratoconus' to provide feedback on their report. She was also invited to attend the HTW Appraisal Panel Meeting (March 2021) to assist the panel in reaching an informed decision. In May 2021 HTW announced their decision to support the provision of corneal cross-linking on the NHS in Wales. The support of the UK-CXL Consortium was also acknowledged in HTW report. |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | UK Cross-linking (UK-CXL) Consortium |
| Organisation | Newcastle University |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | We set up the consortium in 2013 and Sally Hayes continue to manage it. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The aims of the consortium are: (1) to provide a forum for ophthalmologists and vision scientists to develop research collaborations and co-ordinated multi-centre studies, (2) establish a code of best practice for corneal cross-linking in order to standardise the treatment and its measurement outcomes and (3) provide information and advice to national bodies about developments in corneal cross-linking. The consortium currently comprises 63 UK-based ophthalmologists, optometrists and vision scientist members committed to achieving these aims. The founders of the cross-linking treatment also serve as honorary international advisors to the Consortium. |
| Impact | 1. Hosted the UK Cross-linking conference, Birmingham, 2016 2. Developed a National Keratoconus Database for the recording of cross-linking outcomes 3. Collaborative multidisciplinary publications (biophysics and ophthalmology): doi: 10.1167/iovs.17-22994.; doi: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.10.014. 4. 4. Sally Hayes submitted a letter to Health Technology Wales on behalf of the UK Cross-linking Consortium, providing evidence of the cost-effectiveness of corneal cross-linking. Sally was subsequently invited to serve as an independent, external expert reviewer for the Health Technology Wales (HTW) Evidence Appraisal Review of 'Clinical and cost effectiveness of epithelium-off corneal crosslinking to treat adults and children with keratoconus' to provide feedback on their report. She was also invited to attend the HTW Appraisal Panel Meeting (March 2021) to assist the panel in reaching an informed decision. In May 2021 HTW announced their decision to support the provision of corneal cross-linking on the NHS in Wales. The support of the UK-CXL Consortium was also acknowledged in HTW report. |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | UK Cross-linking (UK-CXL) Consortium |
| Organisation | Royal Liverpool University Hospital |
| Department | St. Paul's Eye Unit |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Hospitals |
| PI Contribution | We set up the consortium in 2013 and Sally Hayes continue to manage it. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The aims of the consortium are: (1) to provide a forum for ophthalmologists and vision scientists to develop research collaborations and co-ordinated multi-centre studies, (2) establish a code of best practice for corneal cross-linking in order to standardise the treatment and its measurement outcomes and (3) provide information and advice to national bodies about developments in corneal cross-linking. The consortium currently comprises 63 UK-based ophthalmologists, optometrists and vision scientist members committed to achieving these aims. The founders of the cross-linking treatment also serve as honorary international advisors to the Consortium. |
| Impact | 1. Hosted the UK Cross-linking conference, Birmingham, 2016 2. Developed a National Keratoconus Database for the recording of cross-linking outcomes 3. Collaborative multidisciplinary publications (biophysics and ophthalmology): doi: 10.1167/iovs.17-22994.; doi: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.10.014. 4. 4. Sally Hayes submitted a letter to Health Technology Wales on behalf of the UK Cross-linking Consortium, providing evidence of the cost-effectiveness of corneal cross-linking. Sally was subsequently invited to serve as an independent, external expert reviewer for the Health Technology Wales (HTW) Evidence Appraisal Review of 'Clinical and cost effectiveness of epithelium-off corneal crosslinking to treat adults and children with keratoconus' to provide feedback on their report. She was also invited to attend the HTW Appraisal Panel Meeting (March 2021) to assist the panel in reaching an informed decision. In May 2021 HTW announced their decision to support the provision of corneal cross-linking on the NHS in Wales. The support of the UK-CXL Consortium was also acknowledged in HTW report. |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | UK Cross-linking (UK-CXL) Consortium |
| Organisation | Singleton Hospital |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Hospitals |
| PI Contribution | We set up the consortium in 2013 and Sally Hayes continue to manage it. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The aims of the consortium are: (1) to provide a forum for ophthalmologists and vision scientists to develop research collaborations and co-ordinated multi-centre studies, (2) establish a code of best practice for corneal cross-linking in order to standardise the treatment and its measurement outcomes and (3) provide information and advice to national bodies about developments in corneal cross-linking. The consortium currently comprises 63 UK-based ophthalmologists, optometrists and vision scientist members committed to achieving these aims. The founders of the cross-linking treatment also serve as honorary international advisors to the Consortium. |
| Impact | 1. Hosted the UK Cross-linking conference, Birmingham, 2016 2. Developed a National Keratoconus Database for the recording of cross-linking outcomes 3. Collaborative multidisciplinary publications (biophysics and ophthalmology): doi: 10.1167/iovs.17-22994.; doi: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.10.014. 4. 4. Sally Hayes submitted a letter to Health Technology Wales on behalf of the UK Cross-linking Consortium, providing evidence of the cost-effectiveness of corneal cross-linking. Sally was subsequently invited to serve as an independent, external expert reviewer for the Health Technology Wales (HTW) Evidence Appraisal Review of 'Clinical and cost effectiveness of epithelium-off corneal crosslinking to treat adults and children with keratoconus' to provide feedback on their report. She was also invited to attend the HTW Appraisal Panel Meeting (March 2021) to assist the panel in reaching an informed decision. In May 2021 HTW announced their decision to support the provision of corneal cross-linking on the NHS in Wales. The support of the UK-CXL Consortium was also acknowledged in HTW report. |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | UK Cross-linking (UK-CXL) Consortium |
| Organisation | St Thomas' Hospital |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Hospitals |
| PI Contribution | We set up the consortium in 2013 and Sally Hayes continue to manage it. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The aims of the consortium are: (1) to provide a forum for ophthalmologists and vision scientists to develop research collaborations and co-ordinated multi-centre studies, (2) establish a code of best practice for corneal cross-linking in order to standardise the treatment and its measurement outcomes and (3) provide information and advice to national bodies about developments in corneal cross-linking. The consortium currently comprises 63 UK-based ophthalmologists, optometrists and vision scientist members committed to achieving these aims. The founders of the cross-linking treatment also serve as honorary international advisors to the Consortium. |
| Impact | 1. Hosted the UK Cross-linking conference, Birmingham, 2016 2. Developed a National Keratoconus Database for the recording of cross-linking outcomes 3. Collaborative multidisciplinary publications (biophysics and ophthalmology): doi: 10.1167/iovs.17-22994.; doi: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.10.014. 4. 4. Sally Hayes submitted a letter to Health Technology Wales on behalf of the UK Cross-linking Consortium, providing evidence of the cost-effectiveness of corneal cross-linking. Sally was subsequently invited to serve as an independent, external expert reviewer for the Health Technology Wales (HTW) Evidence Appraisal Review of 'Clinical and cost effectiveness of epithelium-off corneal crosslinking to treat adults and children with keratoconus' to provide feedback on their report. She was also invited to attend the HTW Appraisal Panel Meeting (March 2021) to assist the panel in reaching an informed decision. In May 2021 HTW announced their decision to support the provision of corneal cross-linking on the NHS in Wales. The support of the UK-CXL Consortium was also acknowledged in HTW report. |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | UK Cross-linking (UK-CXL) Consortium |
| Organisation | University College London |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | We set up the consortium in 2013 and Sally Hayes continue to manage it. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The aims of the consortium are: (1) to provide a forum for ophthalmologists and vision scientists to develop research collaborations and co-ordinated multi-centre studies, (2) establish a code of best practice for corneal cross-linking in order to standardise the treatment and its measurement outcomes and (3) provide information and advice to national bodies about developments in corneal cross-linking. The consortium currently comprises 63 UK-based ophthalmologists, optometrists and vision scientist members committed to achieving these aims. The founders of the cross-linking treatment also serve as honorary international advisors to the Consortium. |
| Impact | 1. Hosted the UK Cross-linking conference, Birmingham, 2016 2. Developed a National Keratoconus Database for the recording of cross-linking outcomes 3. Collaborative multidisciplinary publications (biophysics and ophthalmology): doi: 10.1167/iovs.17-22994.; doi: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.10.014. 4. 4. Sally Hayes submitted a letter to Health Technology Wales on behalf of the UK Cross-linking Consortium, providing evidence of the cost-effectiveness of corneal cross-linking. Sally was subsequently invited to serve as an independent, external expert reviewer for the Health Technology Wales (HTW) Evidence Appraisal Review of 'Clinical and cost effectiveness of epithelium-off corneal crosslinking to treat adults and children with keratoconus' to provide feedback on their report. She was also invited to attend the HTW Appraisal Panel Meeting (March 2021) to assist the panel in reaching an informed decision. In May 2021 HTW announced their decision to support the provision of corneal cross-linking on the NHS in Wales. The support of the UK-CXL Consortium was also acknowledged in HTW report. |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | UK Cross-linking (UK-CXL) Consortium |
| Organisation | University of Liverpool |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | We set up the consortium in 2013 and Sally Hayes continue to manage it. |
| Collaborator Contribution | The aims of the consortium are: (1) to provide a forum for ophthalmologists and vision scientists to develop research collaborations and co-ordinated multi-centre studies, (2) establish a code of best practice for corneal cross-linking in order to standardise the treatment and its measurement outcomes and (3) provide information and advice to national bodies about developments in corneal cross-linking. The consortium currently comprises 63 UK-based ophthalmologists, optometrists and vision scientist members committed to achieving these aims. The founders of the cross-linking treatment also serve as honorary international advisors to the Consortium. |
| Impact | 1. Hosted the UK Cross-linking conference, Birmingham, 2016 2. Developed a National Keratoconus Database for the recording of cross-linking outcomes 3. Collaborative multidisciplinary publications (biophysics and ophthalmology): doi: 10.1167/iovs.17-22994.; doi: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.10.014. 4. 4. Sally Hayes submitted a letter to Health Technology Wales on behalf of the UK Cross-linking Consortium, providing evidence of the cost-effectiveness of corneal cross-linking. Sally was subsequently invited to serve as an independent, external expert reviewer for the Health Technology Wales (HTW) Evidence Appraisal Review of 'Clinical and cost effectiveness of epithelium-off corneal crosslinking to treat adults and children with keratoconus' to provide feedback on their report. She was also invited to attend the HTW Appraisal Panel Meeting (March 2021) to assist the panel in reaching an informed decision. In May 2021 HTW announced their decision to support the provision of corneal cross-linking on the NHS in Wales. The support of the UK-CXL Consortium was also acknowledged in HTW report. |
| Start Year | 2013 |
| Description | Veni Vidi |
| Organisation | Veni Vidi |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Private |
| PI Contribution | Corneal cross-linking research and the writing of scientific publications |
| Collaborator Contribution | no charge supply of multiple vials of riboflavin and the donation of one travel grant |
| Impact | multiple publications on cross-linking: doi: 10.1016/j.exer.2016.10.014. doi: 10.1167/iovs.15-18769. doi: 10.1016/j.jcrs.2015.10.004. |
| Start Year | 2012 |
| Description | heard collaboration |
| Organisation | Cardiff University |
| Department | School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Sector | Academic/University |
| PI Contribution | Development of novel topical drug delivery systems to the eye and determining their biological effects |
| Collaborator Contribution | expertise in the field of drug delivery systems |
| Impact | None as yet |
| Start Year | 2017 |
| Title | O'Brart transepithelial CXL clinical trial |
| Description | Working in collaboration with David O'Brart we conducted a series of laboratory studies to develop a novel trans-epithelial cross-linking protocol called the St Thomas's/Cardiff cross-linking protocol. David O'Brart undertook a clinical trial to compare the effectiveness of this protocol to the standard epi-off protocol. Prospective clinical trial: ISRCTN04451470 DOI 10.1186/ISRCTN04451470 Interim results are available at: http://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN04451470?q=04451470&filters=&sort=&offset=1&totalResults=1&page=1&pageSize=10&searchType=basic-search |
| Type | Therapeutic Intervention - Surgery |
| Current Stage Of Development | Early clinical assessment |
| Year Development Stage Completed | 2017 |
| Development Status | Under active development/distribution |
| Clinical Trial? | Yes |
| Impact | None as yet |
| Title | CXL e-registry |
| Description | The creation of a CXL e-registry within Open Eyes software to facilitate the tracking of keratoconus progression and treatment outcomes following NICE recommendations |
| Type Of Technology | Software |
| Year Produced | 2017 |
| Impact | Significant take-up by the community |
| Title | SAXS4COL |
| Description | A software package to analyse x-ray scattering data from fibrous biomaterials was developed and published |
| Type Of Technology | Software |
| Year Produced | 2017 |
| Impact | The software has been used extensively in our publications and is being used by beamline scientists at the Alba synchrotron in Barcelona. Details have been published Abass A, Bell JS, Spang MT, Hayes S, Meek KM, Boote C. SAXS4COLL: an integrated software tool for analysing fibrous collagen-based tissues. Journal of Applied Crystallography2017; 50: 1235-1240. doi.org/10.1107/S1600576717007877 |
| Description | British Science Association Science Cafe talk on Developments in corneal research |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Dr Craig Boote was invited by the British Science Association to speak in a public house about our research on the cornea and the meeting was attended by approximately 20 people, which sparked questions and discussion. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| Description | Conducting research in schools and educating children about the ocular response analyser |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Ocular Response Analyser (funded by MRC) was taken into primary schools and measurements made on school children. This was followed by activities to teach the children about how the eye works. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2014 |
| Description | Doutch S4C |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A broadcast e.g. TV/radio/film/podcast (other than news/press) |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Dr James Doutch, graduate of our group and current collaborator, appeared on an S4C science programme which focused on science at the Diamond synchrotron in Oxfordshire. James enthusiastically explained, in Welsh, the structural changes in the cornea when keratoconus develops. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2015 |
| URL | http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episode/p02rv29x/dibendraw-clir-fel-crisial |
| Description | Hosting work experience students |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an open day or visit at my research institution |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Regional |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Work experience students spent one week shadowing our research at Cardiff University and Diamond Light Source |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2012,2013,2014,2015,2016,2017 |
| Description | Invitation to contribute a feature article |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A magazine, newsletter or online publication |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | Invitation to contribute a guest feature on our research to Diamond News Magazine (2016): Visualising the Dynamic Behaviour of corneal collagen: Diamond News: http://www.diamond.ac.uk/Home/Corporate-Literature/newsletter/Spring2016/User-story.html This piece shows evidence of the work experience students with us at the Diamond synchrotron as part of our STEM programme.. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2016 |
| Description | Invitation to speak to Diamond Users and staff |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Dr James Bell received an invitation to speak at the DIAMONDS seminar series on Jan 19th 2017 about his ongoing research at Diamond - seminar open to all scientific staff, guests and users. The was plenty of discussion after the presentation. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| Description | Invited to contribute guest feature for Science Parks |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A magazine, newsletter or online publication |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Industry/Business |
| Results and Impact | Dr Phil Lewis contributed an article on the use of 3D SEM to the Spring issue of Innovation into Success, a magazine Ten Alps Publishing produce for the United Kingdom Science Park Association www.scienceparks.co.uk (the article starts on page 90). The publication is distributed three times each year across the UKSPA membership, taking in approximately 70 science parks, 3,000 businesses and 70,000 professionals working in science, technology and R&D. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2015 |
| Description | James OBCS |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Professional Practitioners |
| Results and Impact | Dr James Bell presented research findings on corneal biomechanics to an audience of clinicians, research scientists and graduate students |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| Description | Phil CITER presentation |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | A talk or presentation |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Postgraduate students |
| Results and Impact | Dr Phil Lewis, on behalf of the group, gave a presentation on the capabilities of 3D EM to an audience of academic tissue engineers |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2018 |
| Description | School visit |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | Local |
| Primary Audience | Schools |
| Results and Impact | Dr Sally Hayes visited a local primary school to run a Mad Science session which involved teaching children about light perception. The session was well received and she has been invited back to run another session in the near future. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2017 |
| Description | cornea stroma wikipedia |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Engagement focused website, blog or social media channel |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | International |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | The generation of a wikipedia page describing the biology of the corneal stroma |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2015 |
| URL | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stroma_of_cornea |