Development of a novel adaptive optics retinal camera; new possibilities for retinal diagnosis
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Göteborgs Universitet - Institutionen för neurovetenskap och fysiologi, Oftalmologi |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 4 985 000 |
| Project duration | November 2010 - October 2013 |
| Status | Completed |
Important results from the project
The aim of the project, to verify the clinical benefits of the new fundus camera, has not been fulfilled. A miniaturized prototype with optimized performance has been developed and built, and this has been further developed into a Proof-of-Concept-prototype for clinical use. Clinical evaluation has begun. A business plan has been initiated and discussions are held with the key supplier, but the search for investors has been postponed pending results from the clinical evaluation.
Expected long term effects
Two prototypes have been built during the project, a miniaturized prototype on an optical bench and a Proof-of-Concept-prototype for clinical use. Clinical evaluation of the method has begun, including plans to image patients treated with gene therapy and stem cells in collaboration with external partners (Professor Sten Andréasson at Skånes universitetssjukhus in Lund and Professor Anders Kvanta at St. Eriks Eye Hospital in Stockholm, respectively).
Approach and implementation
The optical and technical complexity of the project was underestimated by the project group. Internal validation of the concept, including necessary changes that emerged during validation, resulted in a delay of approx. 8 months. Delays due to external factors: - incorrect bartering decisions by the University of Gothenburg in total approx.. 6 months, - complex development of miniaturized prototype approx. 3 months, - assembly and verification of Proof-of-Concept-prototype approx. 4 months.