< Back to previous page

Project

Photo-induced destruction of protein aggregates and liquefaction of the vitreous humour using light sensitive nanomaterials.

With aging there is progressive aggregation of collagen in the vitreous. When collagen aggregates (‘floaters’) become too large they block sight, which negatively impacts vision. Photo-ablation, the treatment of the aggregates with strong (nanosecond) pulsed-laser, is a current practice. Though significant room remains for a more effective and safer treatment. This project aims to destroy aggregates through the combined use of (i) laser pulses of very low energy and (ii) indocyanine green (ICG), being FDA-approved for use in ophthalmology. We observed that ICG spontaneously accumulates on collagen aggregates (in vitro) and that upon laser illumination vapour nanobubbles (VNBs) arise which mechanically destroy the aggregates. This project aims to explore to which extent ICG, either free or encapsulated in nanomaterials which bind to floaters, allows to destroy the floaters in vivo using low energetic laser pulses. Also, as a result of (partial) liquefaction of vitreous, the vitreous cortex often starts to detach from the retina in elderly (post-vitreous detachment; PVD). Incomplete PVD can lead to retinal tears which tremendously impact vision. An approach to detach the vitreous completely from the retina would be beneficial. Current treatment relies on vitrectomy or intravitreal injection of enzymes such ocriplasmin. This project will explore light-responsive nanomaterials – able to generate VNBs in vitreous - for the purpose of local (and safe) liquefaction of vitreous.

Date:1 Nov 2021 →  31 Aug 2022
Keywords:ocular protein aggregates, vitreous, Light sensitive nanomaterials
Disciplines:Particle design and technology, Biopharmaceutics, Physical pharmacy, Biomaterials, Other biotechnology, bio-engineering and biosystem engineering not elsewhere classified