This work should extend to clinical trials within the next two years. Corneal endothelial disease is a major cause of graft failure. Research is in progress to modify corneal endothelial cell function by gene transfer. This laboratory based work is expected to become a clinical trial within the next two years. The cornea is the clear part of the wall of the eye through which light is focussed on the retina.
Corneal disease is the second leading cause of visual loss worldwide.
The biomaterials and tissue engineering group, led by Bruce Allan, is engaged in a comprehensive programme of research aimed at developing an artificial cornea. Glaucoma and cataract frequently coexist. A trial is being developed to assess whether the best surgical approach will be to combine cataract with glaucoma surgery or to operate upon the glaucoma and wait to see whether visual loss from cataract develops subsequently.