A novel intraocular injectable platform for long-term treatment of retinal diseases.

Retinal diseases are the leading causes of blindness in Canada. Retinal diseases are currently treated by monthly or bimonthly intraocular injections of biologics. At the Sheardown lab, we are developing a new injectable hydrogel that can provide prolonged treatment for retinal diseases. Upon injection, the new treatment forms a transparent solid depot inside the eye that doesn’t interfere with the patient’s vision. The depot provides sustained release of the biologics over several months and is completely resorbable after delivery of its payload. The new treatment aims at reducing the frequency of intraocular injections to improve patient convenience and reduce the burden on ophthalmology clinics.

Faculty Supervisor:

Heather Sheardown

Student:

Karim Soliman

Partner:

Springboard Atlantic

Discipline:

Engineering - chemical / biological

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

McMaster University