NVLS / PC01

Cataract is caused by opacification of the natural crystalline lens of the eye. Treatment involves surgical removal of the opacified material, leaving an empty capsular bag where an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted. Currently, an estimated 6 million cataract surgeries with IOL implantation are performed worldwide/year.

Secondary cataract or posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is the most common complication of cataract surgery. It remains a major cause of decreased vision occurring at a rate of between 3-50% in the first five post-operative years. PCO results from migration and proliferation of crystalline lens epithelial cells (LECs) behind the artificial IOL inside of the capsular bag.

The treatment of PCO is typically based on the use of a laser to open the capsular behind the IOL clearing the opacified area. This procedure is not without risks, and complications include IOL damage, IOL dislocation, retinal detachment, and glaucoma. Therefore, prevention of PCO is important, not only because of the risks associated with its treatment, but also because of the costs involved.

PCO has been a significant cost burden to the US health care system. Until recently, laser treatments of almost 1 million PCO-afflicted patients have cost up to $0.25 billion annually.

This project will evaluate the role of a molecule that blocks the signals involved in the migration and proliferation of residual LECs for the prevention of PCO. Preliminary experimental studies have already shown very promising results, and we believe this molecule can be used to treat the empty capsular bag during the cataract surgery procedure to prevent PCO.