Corneal damage model
Oxidative stress, caused by age, surgical interventions or diseases, contributes to corneal damage. Our working group is working on establishing a porcine damage model to analyze the processes induced by oxidative stress and to test possible therapeutic intervention options. Porcine corneal cultures are damaged with hydrogen peroxide, a strong oxidant, and then examined using protein biochemical and molecular biochemical analyses.
Cornea model for the investigation of keratoconus
Keratoconus is a multifactorial, progressive eye disease characterized by thinning and conical deformation of the cornea. Our research group is currently establishing a keratoconus model in which corneal cultures are damaged by the administration of collagenase type 2. This model allows us to investigate the pathogenesis of the disease and test new therapeutic approaches.
Porcine cornea model for the development of a novel laser system
Preclinical studies are crucial for testing medical devices in the laboratory before they are tested on humans. This enables initial assessments of effectiveness and tolerability as well as early optimizations in development.
In a project funded by the BMBF, we are working with SCHWIND eyetech-solutions to develop a non-invasive laser-induced refractive index change system (LIRIC) for correcting visual impairments. Ultra-short laser pulses are used to influence the structure of the cornea without cutting it, thereby changing the refractive power of the eye. LIRIC could open up a new dimension in the treatment of visual impairments such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism and presbyopia. By avoiding the removal of tissue, the risks and side effects for patients are minimized. The procedure should be applicable to a wide range of patient groups in the future, including those with presbyopia. Another advantage is that the LIRIC treatment can be applied multiple times to the eye.
Our research on corneal models contributes significantly to the development of new diagnostic and therapeutic methods and promotes interdisciplinary cooperation in ophthalmology.