Saturday Programme: Symposium: Innovation in Retina Research, Australasia 2025

REGISTER FOR THIS EVENT HERE

Cost:

Friday $50 (for non-members) – Payable to Retina NZ Inc. 12-3013-0845604-00

Saturday: Free to Members, partners, family, all interested others including professionals in the low vision field. 

Where: Blind Low Vision Rec Centre, Homai, 30 Mcvilly Road, Manurewa, Auckland 2102

Plus livestream service and video recordings of the sessions will be available

Members, Blind Low Vision, other professionals, and interested public Session

Saturday 22nd, February 2025      0930 to 1630

0930    Arrival and Morning tea.

1000    Greeting and Introduction.                                        10 min.

Dr Paul Glover, President, Retina NZ 

1010     A/Prof Andrea Vincent.                                                20 min.

Title: Inherited retinal disease in the New Zealand population. 

Abstract or synopsis:  The database of Inherited Retinal and Optic nerve disease was established over 15 years ago and has over 1800 participants. Advances in clinical assessment and genetic technology have allowed us to understand the frequency and nuances of IRD in the NZ population that differ from other populations. 

Brief Bio:  Dr Andrea Vincent is a clinician scientist, consultant ophthalmologist and Associate Professor at the University of Auckland, and also works at the eye Clinic at Greenlane clinical centre, providing the only specialist ocular genetic service in the country, as well as at Retina Specialists. 

Her research seeks to understand the underlying mechanisms of inherited eye disease. 

1030     Prof Lauren Ayton                                                       30 min.

Title: Update on emerging therapies for inherited retinal diseases.

Abstract or synopsis: Since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval of the gene therapy Luxturna in 2017, for people with RPE65-associated inherited retinal degeneration, the race has been on for the next treatment to make it to market. This talk will provide an overview of the treatment options that are currently in the development pipeline, including gene therapies, optogenetics and other pharmaceuticals. We will also discuss the challenges in getting these therapies to market, including the lack of appropriate clinical trial outcome measures.

Brief Bio: Prof Lauren Ayton is the Head of the Retinal Gene Therapy Unit (Centre for Eye Research Australia) and the Vision Optimisation Unit (University of Melbourne). Her team are focused on inherited retinal diseases, seeking to learn more about the impacts these conditions have on individuals, as well as contributing to the development of new therapy options. Additionally, Lauren is currently the Associate Dean of Innovation and Enterprise for the Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne.

1100    Professor Robyn Guymer AM                                   30 min.

Title:  What’s new in AMD?  The new treatments for Wet AMD and Dry AMD, and what is in the pipeline.

Synopsis:  This talk will cover new approved treatments for neovascular (wet) AMD, and geographic atrophy (dry AMD). It will also look at novel treatments that are currently in late-stage trials. We will also look at what is being considered as treatment in intermediate AMD, aiming to slow progression of disease to late-stage AMD.

Brief Bio: MBBS, PhD, FRANZCO, FAHMS,  Deputy Director, Centre for Eye Research Australia, Professor of Surgery (Ophthalmology), University of Melbourne, Research Integrity Advisor.

1130    Dr Odunayo (Lola) Mugisho                                      30 min.

Title:  Targeting Inflammation in Diabetic Retinopathy: Lessons from Ten Years of Research.

Abstract:  Chronic inflammation is a key factor in many age-related diseases, including diabetic retinopathy, a leading cause of vision loss.  One important player in this process is the inflammasome pathway, part of the body’s immune defense.  When triggered, it can worsen and sustain inflammation, making it harder for the body to recover, especially with age.  Understanding how this pathway works could open doors to treating the many conditions that have been linked to chronic inflammation.  In this talk, I will share what we’ve learned over the past decade about how the inflammasome pathway contributes to diabetic retinopathy.  I will explain how our research has helped advance an anti-inflammasome drug into clinical trials for this condition.  Finally, I will discuss how these discoveries could guide future treatments for inherited retinal diseases. 

Brief Bio:  PhD, MSc, PGDipSci, BSc (Biomedical Science), AMRF Senior Research Fellow Head, Inflammasome Biology Research Group, Founder and Director, Dawa Therapeutics Ltd.  Deputy Director, Buchanan Ocular Therapeutics Unit.

1200     Dr Alix Coysh                                                            15 min.

Introducing a new NZ Researcher. 

Title: Establishing large-animal models and developing treatments for Retinitis Pigmentosa.

Abstract: Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) comprises a group of inherited retinal disorders that cause progressive vision loss, often leading to severe impairment or blindness. In New Zealand, approximately 1,250 individuals are affected by RP, facing significant challenges due to the current lack of effective treatment options.  

With the generous support of Retina NZ, the Applied Translational Genetics Lab at The University of Auckland is advancing CRISPR/Cas9 genome-editing tools. These tools function as molecular scissors, enabling precise genome editing and representing a critical foundation for the ambitious goal of generating large-animal models of RP using sheep. This innovative platform aims to improve our understanding of RP disease progression and facilitate the testing of therapeutic interventions.  

The project focuses on developing animal models for both dominant and recessive forms of RP, while simultaneously creating gene therapies to correct disease-causing mutations or enhance normal gene function. These efforts hold the potential to halt disease progression and restore vision in those affected by RP.

I am unsure at this stage if I will present at the symposium in conjunction with the summer student Jamie Hyde, but can confirm this closer to the time and for now I have included a joint bio.

Bio: Dr. Alix Coysh is a member of Retina NZ and a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Applied Translational Genetics Lab at The University of Auckland’s School of Biological Sciences. Retina NZ has generously contributed funding to support her research, including funding for a summer internship undertaken by Mr. Jamie Hyde.  

Alix’s research leverages cutting-edge science to develop innovative treatments for Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP), aiming to halt disease progression and potentially restore vision. Jamie’s summer research focuses on the foundational experimental work required for this ambitious project.  

Alix has a strong background in genetic research and bioinformatics, earning her Doctorate and Master’s degrees through studies on blood cancer genetics. She previously undertook a Retina NZ-funded studentship diagnosing genetic causes of retinal conditions in Māori and Pasifika populations. Jamie, a recent graduate with First-Class Honours in Biological Sciences, investigated metabolic changes associated with Huntington’s Disease during his Honours research.

1215     A/Prof Monica Acosta                                                20 min.

Title: Signs of Aging in Our Eyes: Understanding Eye-Related Biomarkers. 

Abstract:  The retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye, is a valuable, non-invasive tool for detecting age-related conditions that affect the brain and the rest of the body. Because the retina is directly connected to the brain, changes in the eye can reflect changes in the brain. This is still debated, but in our research, we used different methods in animal models to study how diseases affecting the brain also impact the retina. We used Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) to measure changes in the thickness of layers in the retina, which helps us understand structural damage. We also used Electroretinography (ERG) to check how well the retina’s cells are functioning, especially the cells that respond to light. Additionally, we used a special type of imaging to see the build-up of a harmful protein called amyloid-beta, which is linked to Alzheimer’s disease. Our findings showed important changes in the retina, including thinning of the retinal layers, loss of important retinal cells, and activation of immune cells in the eye. These changes matched damage seen in the brain in diseases like Alzheimer’s. These results suggest that combining advanced eye scans with tests of brain function can provide a full picture of how neurodegenerative diseases progress. Since these methods are easy to use, they hold great potential for detecting and tracking brain diseases earlier, even before symptoms appear.

Bio: Dr. Acosta obtained her Ph.D. in Biosciences from Hokkaido University, Japan, in 2002. Previously, she completed a Master’s in Biological Sciences at University of the Republic, Uruguay in 1999. She began her career in Auckland as a Postdoctoral Researcher in the Department of Optometry and Vision Science at the University of Auckland in 2002. She is currently an Associate Professor, a position she has held since 2020, and since 2021 has served as Associate Head Postgraduate at the School of Optometry and Vision Science. Since 2007, she has led the Cellular and Molecular Biology of the Retina Laboratory at the School of Optometry and Vision Science. Her research includes in vitro and in vivo models of retinal degeneration and brain pathologies associated with visual problems, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Her work has led to invitations to serve as Principal Investigator at three research centres of excellence: Aotearoa New Zealand National Eye Centre, Centre for Brain Research (CBR), and Kaupapa Roro o Aotearoa/Aotearoa Brain Project, at the University of Auckland. She has participated as an invited academic leader in international projects, and served in prestigious grant committees. Currently, she is a voluntary trustee of Save Sight Support Trust in New Zealand, supporting initiatives related to the preservation and improvement of vision in older adults.

1235      Lunch                                                                            60 min.

1335      Discussion                                                                    10 min.

1345     Francesc March de Ribot                                             20 min.

Using amiloride to reduce fibrosis in age-related macular degeneration

Authors: Francesc March de Ribot1, Harrison Dolan1,2, Rob Walker1, Monica Ascota3, Tania Slatter2

Affiliations: 1Department of Medicine, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand;2Department Pathology, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand; 3School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.

Age macular degeneration (AMD) is the main cause of blindness in patients older than 65 years. Although there are treatments available to reduce the abnormal blood vessels, they don’t restrain fibrosis, which is the main cause of vision loss. The anti-diuretic drug amiloride prevents fibrosis in animal models of chronic kidney damage. Here we investigated if amiloride would have similar effects in reducing fibrosis in models of AMD (an in vitro model for AMD, where the retinal pigment epithelial cell line (ARPE-19) was serum starved and a rat model). In vitro, amiloride was associated with reduced expression of genes involved in fibrosis and inflammation following a whole transcriptome analysis. Validation of key inflammatory markers using showed a two-four-fold decrease in pro-inflammatory markers CCL2, IL18 and C3R1a using enzyme linked immunosorbent assays. Results from the in vivo model are imminent. This study has provided evidence that amiloride can reduce inflammatory and fibrosis signatures in AMD models. Future aspects of this work will aim to find the mechanism by which amiloride works to further improve its use before beginning human clinical trials to test if amiloride can be indicated to improve AMD.

1405     Dr Wilson Pan                                                                   15 min.

Title:  Advancing Ocular Research and Diagnostics: Exploring Tissue Physiology with Multi-Parametric MR.

Abstract:  Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a well-established non-invasive technique employed in both biomedical research and clinical diagnostics. Moving beyond traditional qualitative imaging, multi-parametric MRI offers quantitative data on tissue properties, thereby enhancing our understanding of physiological and pathological processes. Recent advances in multi-parametric MRI have markedly benefited ocular research, enabling detailed examination of key physiological characteristics across various ocular tissues, such as the lens (water and protein content), vitreous (oxygen levels and viscosity), and retina (blood flow). This innovative approach not only allows for the evaluation of individual tissue properties but also facilitates the study of interactions between ocular tissues. In this presentation, I will outline our work on developing and applying multi-parametric MRI techniques to investigate the physiological characteristics of ocular tissues. Case studies drawn from animal models and clinical research into vitreoretinal diseases will demonstrate the potential of this technology to enhance our understanding of ocular health and pathology.

Brief Bio:  Dr. Pan holds a Bachelor of Technology with first-class honours in medical physics and imaging technology and a PhD in optometry from the University of Auckland. As a research fellow at the Molecular Vision Research Cluster, FMHS, his work focuses on developing quantitative MRI techniques to investigate ocular tissues, integrating experimental approaches and optical modelling. Dr. Pan has extensive experience in pre-clinical and clinical MRI and is a named researcher on major grants, including those from the Health Research Council of New Zealand (HRC) and the NIH (USA)

1420     Dr Prakash Karn                                                                15 min.

Title:   Advancing Retinal Health: Innovations in AI for Precision Diagnosis and Treatment. 

Abstract:  The symposium presentation will explore the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on retinal imaging and disease management. It will cover cutting-edge advancements in deep learning, multimodal imaging, and vision language models, emphasizing their role in precision diagnostics and personalized treatment planning. The session will be briefly about the integration of fundus and OCT imaging with non-imaging data to predict disease progression and develop tailored treatment strategies. By bridging research and clinical applications, this talk aims to highlight AI’s potential to revolutionize retinal healthcare.

Bio:  Dr Prakash Kumar Karn is a dedicated researcher in computer vision and retinal image processing, with a PhD in Medical Image Processing from the University of Auckland. His work spans AI, deep learning, and vision language models, focusing on retinal health diagnostics and personalized treatment strategies. With numerous impactful publications and ongoing innovation in retinal imaging, Dr. Karn is committed to advancing precision healthcare through technology. 

1435     Afternoon tea                                                                      15 min.

1450     Francesc March de Ribot                                                  20 min.

Title:  interRAI analysis.

Authors: Francesc March de Ribot1, Ulrich Bergler2, Hamish Jamieson2

Affiliations: 1Department of Medicine, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Dunedin, 2 1Department of Medicine, Dunedin School of Medicine, University of Otago, Christchurch. 

We made an interRAI analysis focusing vision loss and interRAI. in 2 years data, we studied 469,817 assessments involving 141,445 older adults in NZ. Vision loss was a prognostic factor of dementia, increasing the risk by 1,55 times. Vision loss was a prognostic factor of dependence limitations, increasing the risk 1,75 times. These situations were affecting especially the Pasifika population. The results reveal the importance of preserving vision, early detection of eye problems, and preservation of vision loss, which are critical to improving health outcomes. Nevertheless, interestingly we found in the patients with no vision the outcomes were better. A possible explanation is that older adults with lower vision at early ages develop compensatory mechanisms that reduce their health issues compared to the older adults that have the vision loss later on life. 

Bio:  Dr March is an eye specialist (ophthalmologist) in Dunedin. He has been trained in New Zealand, North America, and Europe through fellowship programs. He is a subspecialist in Retina, Glaucoma, and Cataract surgery. Dr March is a Consultant at the Dunedin Hospital and is involved with Otago University. He is doing research and disseminating eye diseases to improve community outcomes.

1510 – 1630       Discussion/ Panel                                                 As desired.

1630 Close. 

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