Novel method introduced for detecting retinal micro-aneurysms that pose high risk for leakage

Yissum Research Development Company of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem Ltd., the technology transfer arm of the Hebrew University, introduces a novel method for detecting retinal micro-aneurysms that pose a high risk for leakage, an underlying cause of diabetic retinopathy. Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness worldwide. The novel method will enable early diagnosis and treatment of the condition, potentially minimizing damage and saving vision. The technology was patented by Yissum, which is currently searching for an appropriate partner for the further development and commercialization of the invention. It was introduced at IATI-BioMed Israel 2013, the 12^th National Life Science and Technology Week, held in the David InterContinental Hotel, Tel Aviv, Israel on June 10-12, 2013.

“Diabetic Retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness and disability in the Western world”

Dr. Yaakov Nahmias and his team from the Center for Bioengineering at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem developed a computational method to identify microvascular regions with high risk of leakage based on fluid dynamics. The method will enable ophthalmologists to identify microaneurysms with a high risk of leakage using adaptive optics. The scientists found that high risk is correlated with increased level of a protein called Von Willebrand factor (vWF), which has been associated with early development of diabetic retinopathy (a common diabetic complications of the eye).

Retinal microaneurysms are dilations of small blood vessels in the retina, and an early feature of diabetic retinopathy, one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. Retinal microaneurysms reduce vision because they eventually cause fluid leakage from blood vessels and retinal edema. Localized leakage can be detected and treated using laser ablation slowing the progression of diabetic blindness.

"Diabetic Retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness and disability in the Western world," said Yaacov Michlin, CEO of Yissum. "The novel method developed by Dr. Nahmias will allow experts to rapidly identify and treat those microaneurysms that pose a high-risk of leakage, minimizing edema and saving vision. Moreover, the scientists open the route for targeted therapy or clinical detection using vWF, which they show serves as a protein marker for risky regions in the retina. By enabling early detection of high-risk areas, treatment of diabetic retinopathy can shift from a reactive treatment to a preventive one, not only preventing blindness but also saving millions of dollars in medical costs."