SiSaf Limited
Challenge
The clear structure at the front of the eye which allows vision is called the cornea. Disruption of corneal transparency due to disease, infection, injury or genetic conditions results in blocking or distortion of light entering the eye and hence leads to decreased visual acuity and at the extreme blindness. Corneal pathologies are a significant and underestimated cause of blindness leading to approximately 2 million new cases each year. To avoid transplantation drug treatment needs enhanced drug delivery. However, SiSaf had no knowledge base in ophthalmology or delivery of nucleic acid to the cornea of the eye, this was a totally new area.
Solution
This KTP project facilitated a collaboration with Ulster University to develop:
- New capabilities in SiSaf BioCourier drug formulation technology for gene therapy ensuring molecules are efficiently delivered and remain biologically active.
- Protocols for non-viral vector and nucleic acid formulation and handling.
- Knowledge in the area of ophthalmology, relevant analytical testing methods and biological models.
- Knowledge and understanding of product safety and efficacy testing.
- A market knowledge base in ophthalmology and manufacturing costs to develop a gene therapy product that is commercially attractive for the company, affordable by the health care system and desirable by the end user.
Company Impact
This KTP developed eye drops using revolutionary new nanotechnology to overcome drug delivery challenges in ophthalmology to treat, cure and prevent eye disease (including eye removal, transplants and blindness in children and adults) with enhanced outcomes.