Ophthalmology part of CSIRO ?roadmap? to future growth

Described as a ‘roadmap’ for unlocking future growth opportunities, it highlighted four key sectors for which Australia is well positioned to take advantage. These included smart devices, implants and bionics, as well as diagnostics products and services.According to the report, despite the decline of Australia’s MTP sector in recent years, it rained a significant contributor to the economy and that the successful translation of MTP solutions should rain a national priority.Based on an assessment of publication output conducted by the CSIRO, Australia was ranked in the top 10 globally for basic ophthalmology and optometry related research. It said regulatory science – which it described as an area of existing strength – and the development of improved platforms to manufacture complex products in liquid and si-solid dose formulations were two areas that should be focused on within ophthalmic research.Specifically, the development of the bionic eye was highlighted as a project that could become a reality in the next 3-10 years.However, the report cautioned that a predicted shortage of more than 180 ophthalmologists in Australia by 2025 would reduce the ability to develop clinically driven MTP solutions and conduct clinical trials. It also suggested low rates of translation of research and a lack of collaboration between research organisations and industry as further issues.The full report can be accessed here.