Patient-Centred, Biomechanics-Based Customisation for Improved Treatment of Corneal Conditions
Lead Participant:
OCUWELL LIMITED
Abstract
**Project's objectives:**
Our project introduces a paradigm shift in corneal treatments, offering unprecedented customisation and precision. We plan to leverage innovative technologies for in-vivo corneal biomechanics, topography, and microstructure mapping (doi:10.3389/fbioe.2019.00105, doi:10.1098/rsif.2020.0900, doi:10.1098/rsif.2018.0685). Our approach integrates software tools that account for patient-specific corneal biomechanics and topography and understanding of their tissue microstructure (which controls distribution of biomechanical properties and reflects their deterioration in disease). These tools will incorporate AI neural networks trained on representative and clinically validated numerical eye models and their interactions with treatment procedures. In this project, these user-friendly tools will transition into clinical applications, undergo validation through clinical trials, and be prepared for regulatory approvals and commercialisation.
**Project Emphasis:**
The project targets four distinct corneal treatments:
1) We will develop customisation methods for cross-linking procedures to arrest keratoconus progression.
2) We will pioneer personalised strategies for intracorneal ring segment surgeries to restore healthy corneal geometry in significantly distorted corneas.
3) Moreover, we will refine the fitting of orthokeratology contact lenses to correct myopia and slow its progression (doi:10.1097/ICL.0000000000000190).
4) To manage astigmatism effectively, we will create a personalised approach to plan limbal incisions in cataract surgeries.
Preliminary studies employing numerical simulation and AI have successfully de-risked these four areas, allowing the project to concentrate on developing, validating, and optimising clinical and commercial treatment tools.
**Team Composition:**
Our consortium consists of distinguished partners with profound expertise across relevant areas. They provide robust backgrounds in numerical modelling, in-vivo ocular biomechanics characterisation, ex-vivo mechanical testing, ocular microstructure analysis, multi-scale numerical modelling, corneal health, corneal topography measurement, surgical treatments, and clinical practice (doi:10.1080/02713683.2022.2154807, doi:10.1016/j.medntd.2022.100133). Their combined knowledge and collaborative synergy equip the consortium to develop, validate, and implement customisation methods across key treatments.
The technology developments will be undertaken by Ocuwell Limited and the University of Plymouth teams, while partners at Yonsei University, Asan Medical Centre, and Eyereum eye clinic will conduct the clinical development and validation. By utilising all partners' extensive track records and expertise, the project is positioned for success, ensuring efficient project management, and achieving its clinical and commercial objectives.
Our project introduces a paradigm shift in corneal treatments, offering unprecedented customisation and precision. We plan to leverage innovative technologies for in-vivo corneal biomechanics, topography, and microstructure mapping (doi:10.3389/fbioe.2019.00105, doi:10.1098/rsif.2020.0900, doi:10.1098/rsif.2018.0685). Our approach integrates software tools that account for patient-specific corneal biomechanics and topography and understanding of their tissue microstructure (which controls distribution of biomechanical properties and reflects their deterioration in disease). These tools will incorporate AI neural networks trained on representative and clinically validated numerical eye models and their interactions with treatment procedures. In this project, these user-friendly tools will transition into clinical applications, undergo validation through clinical trials, and be prepared for regulatory approvals and commercialisation.
**Project Emphasis:**
The project targets four distinct corneal treatments:
1) We will develop customisation methods for cross-linking procedures to arrest keratoconus progression.
2) We will pioneer personalised strategies for intracorneal ring segment surgeries to restore healthy corneal geometry in significantly distorted corneas.
3) Moreover, we will refine the fitting of orthokeratology contact lenses to correct myopia and slow its progression (doi:10.1097/ICL.0000000000000190).
4) To manage astigmatism effectively, we will create a personalised approach to plan limbal incisions in cataract surgeries.
Preliminary studies employing numerical simulation and AI have successfully de-risked these four areas, allowing the project to concentrate on developing, validating, and optimising clinical and commercial treatment tools.
**Team Composition:**
Our consortium consists of distinguished partners with profound expertise across relevant areas. They provide robust backgrounds in numerical modelling, in-vivo ocular biomechanics characterisation, ex-vivo mechanical testing, ocular microstructure analysis, multi-scale numerical modelling, corneal health, corneal topography measurement, surgical treatments, and clinical practice (doi:10.1080/02713683.2022.2154807, doi:10.1016/j.medntd.2022.100133). Their combined knowledge and collaborative synergy equip the consortium to develop, validate, and implement customisation methods across key treatments.
The technology developments will be undertaken by Ocuwell Limited and the University of Plymouth teams, while partners at Yonsei University, Asan Medical Centre, and Eyereum eye clinic will conduct the clinical development and validation. By utilising all partners' extensive track records and expertise, the project is positioned for success, ensuring efficient project management, and achieving its clinical and commercial objectives.
Lead Participant | Project Cost | Grant Offer |
|---|---|---|
| OCUWELL LIMITED | £371,533 | £ 260,073 |
Participant |
||
| INNOVATE UK | ||
| UNIVERSITY OF PLYMOUTH | £256,493 | £ 256,493 |
People |
ORCID iD |
| Rania Maklad (Project Manager) |