Australian researchers are using genetic testing to identify as many people as possible with inherited retinal disease (IRD), in preparation for an influx of life-changing gene and stem cell therapies expected over the next decade. Read more
TGA approves first pharma option for proliferative diabetic retinopathy
For 40 years laser therapy has been the standard treatment for proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), but now Australian ophthalmologists have a new option following regulatory approval of an existing drug. Read more
AI-driven headset that detects AMD set for Australian debut
A US company that has incorporated dark adaptometry into a new wearable headset for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is on the cusp of introducing the AI-guided technology to the Australian ophthalmic market. Read more
Aussie firm reveals next-gen MIGS device in pipeline
Adelaide ophthalmic device manufacturer Nova Eye Medical is developing a next generation iTrack glaucoma surgical system to reduce operating times. It is also progressing towards a pivotal US study for its 2RT laser therapy for intermediate AMD that could fulfil a distinct gap in a multi-billion-dollar market. Read more
TGA approves Luxturna gene therapy
In a historical development for the eye health sector, the Therapeutics Goods Administration (TGA) has approved the country’s first true gene therapy, indicated for a rare form of inherited retinal disease (IRD). Read more
Clinical model puts dry eye first
In the final instalment of Insight’s five-part dry eye series, optometrist Ms Marilyn Stern reveals how low overheads and no refraction equipment set Perth’s first dedicated dry eye clinic apart. So too does its patient demographic, with several teens counted among them. Read more
Optimel secures its niche
In Part 4 of Insight’s dry eye series, Melcare Biomedical CEO Anthony Moloney reveals how his company’s Australian-made product has proven to significantly reduce the severity of dry eye symptoms when compared with a conventional ocular lubricant – and hints there may be further therapies on the horizon. Read more
Eylea biosimilar embarks on Phase 3 trial
A biopharmaceutical company that is developing cheaper anti-VEGF treatments for Australia and other markets has launched a global clinical trial for a biosimilar version of leading treatment Eylea (aflibercept). Read more
Taking advantage of the ocular surface to diagnose other forms of disease
In Part 3 of Insight’s dry eye series, academic and author Dr Maria Markoulli shares her interest in the impact of ocular and systemic disease on the tear film and how eyecare professionals can better use this to diagnose and manage these conditions. Read more
Dry Eye Directory grabs global attention
In Part 2 of Insight’s dry eye series, independent optometrist Mr Leigh Plowman discusses how Google rankings of a dry eye directory introduced last year have been building worldwide, connecting patients to practices who have invested in treating dry eye. Read more