Corneal blindness
Improving outcomes for patients affected by corneal diseases
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Our NSW Tissue Bank Research Groups are working on new cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment methods for corneal transplantation. We aim to prevent blindness and improve outcomes for patients affected by corneal diseases.
BIENCO is a multicentre, Australian research initiative involving researchers from University of Sydney, University of Wollongong, University of Melbourne and Queensland University of Technology.
The corneal endothelium is a single layer of cells that maintains appropriate corneal dehydration and clarity. Disruption of this layer through trauma or disease can result in cloudiness of the cornea and reduced vision.
Currently, endothelial corneal disease remains the most common indication for corneal transplantation in Australia representing a significant concern. Originally it was thought that these cells do not replicate, and the only option for visual rehabilitation was by replacement through transplantation.
Recent advances have shown that this is incorrect, and the endothelium can replicate in specific conditions and pharmacological treatments can be administered to encourage healing of this vital layer. In the last five years, our group has made significant progress in growing human corneal endothelial cells (hCEC) in the laboratory setting.
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Mailing address
South Block, Sydney Eye Hospital
8 Macquarie Street
Sydney, NSW 2000