SETU researcher's groundbreaking eye drops could help treat millions
Dr Fitzhenry pictured with the Ocular Therapeutics Research Group (OTRG)
South East Technological University (SETU) scientist Dr Laurence Fitzhenry has been granted two international patents for new eye drop technologies that could be the first step in helping to transform treatment for millions of people worldwide.
The patents, issued by the United States and European patent offices, recognise innovative nanomedicine drops designed for ocular drug delivery.
The formulations could help medicine reach the eye more effectively than traditional drops, potentially staying in place longer and improving drug absorption.
The technologies could help improve treatment for conditions like dry eye disease but could potentially be applied to other conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease.
“These patents mark an exciting milestone for our team,” said Dr Fitzhenry.
“Our aim is to make eye treatments work better for patients, and the granting of these patents helps us move one step closer to turning our research into real-world therapies by generating knowledge that could one day form the basis for a marketed treatment.”
Dr James O’Sullivan, Head of Innovation and Commercialisation at SETU, added: “This success demonstrates how SETU researchers are creating intellectual property with the potential for global impact. Protecting these innovations not only paves the way for new treatments but also strengthens SETU’s ability to partner with industry.”
