Our world-first autologous corneal stem cell transplantation technique using a standard contact lens enabled the culture and transfer of stem cells to the eye’s surface. Unilateral limbal (corneal) stem cell deficiency (LSCD) – a blinding corneal disease, was reversed and sight restored in the mid-term in our clinical study. Our success was acknowledged across the globe with citations of our publications in over 28 countries and worldwide prominence of 93% (Scopus topic T.3344). However, our technique was successful in only 60% of the patients we treated. With MRFF (#2022757) support, a Sydney Nano Kickstarter, and Tech Voucher from Therapeutic Innovation Australia, we partnered with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) to improve our technique. We were then the first group to coat contact lenses with the CSIRO’s patented technology. The coated lenses known as ‘Sight Lens’ was found to have excellent biocompatibility, with significantly stem cell function. With ‘Sight Lens’ at Technology Readiness Level 4, we are now progressing towards a clinical trial to treat limbal (corneal) stem cell deficiency (LSCD). As with ‘Sight Lens’ we will be able to increase the success of our stem cell transplantation technique and restore sight to patients with corneal blindness from LSCD. 

 

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