Science and Research
Inherited retinal disease research
From gene and cell therapies to the bionic eye, our scientists work across a number of research areas to advance our knowledge of IRDs and develop potential treatments.
Overview
Inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) are the leading cause of blindness in working age adults in developed countries such as Australia and the UK.
Our researchers are working to advance our scientific understanding of the genes that cause different IRDs, the impact these conditions have on people’s everyday life – and striving to develop potential treatments.
The VENTURE Study is CERA's key clinical research program into IRDs. The VENTURE registry contains information from over 550 people, which will help us advance understanding of IRDs and identify patients suitable for clinical trials.
In the laboratory, our scientists are using innovative stem cell technologies, cellular reprogramming and gene editing techniques to better understand how the retina works and develop new therapies that could restore sight.
Our Bionic Eye team has developed a suprachoroidal retinal prosthesis that is being trialled in patients with retinitis pigmentosa, helping them navigate the world.
Through our partner organisation, Cerulea Clinical Trials, we have conducted several international clinical trials for IRD treatments, including gene therapy, oral antioxidants and other promising medicines.Why this research is important
Millions of working-age people worldwide are affected by IRDs like retinitis pigmentosa, macular dystrophy, or a range of rarer genetic conditions. More than 300 genes are known to be associated with retinal diseases.
We are striving to improve the quality of care for people with IRDs, even before new treatments become available. This includes research and advocacy into improved ways of diagnosing IRDs, enhancing clinicians’ understanding of these conditions, developing better support systems for affected families and creating integrated care models.
Key research questions
- How do we generate human retinal cells in the lab using stem cell technologies?
- Can we regenerate the retina to treat blindness caused by retinal degenerative diseases?
- Can we use new gene editing technology to develop gene therapy for inherited retinal diseases?
- What are the signals that support retinal cells for healthy vision?
- Why do common and complex eye diseases develop? What are the molecular underpinnings to these diseases?
- How can emerging biotechnologies be best used to treat inherited blinding disease?
- Does use of a retinal prosthesis at home result in better outcomes for patients?