Lead Inventors: Stephen L. Sturley, Ph.D. and Stephen Trokel, M.D.
Artificial tears based on the that mimic natural lipids produced by tear ducts:
Chronic dry eye syndrome (CDES) is one of the most common ocular problems.
Although a number of etiologies result in CDES, the condition arises from a disruption of
the pre-ocular tear film leading to either reduced tear production or excess tear
evaporation. The human tear film is essential for normal eye function. Mild deficiencies
of tears produce a subjective foreign body or gritty sensation, while more severe
deficiencies can lead to epithelial defects, corneal dryness, and vision loss. While the
most common cause of tear deficiencies are autoimmune diseases, the majority of
patients with CDES due to excess tear evaporation suffer from meibomian gland
dysfunction resulting in lipid tear deficiency. The meibomian glands in the eyelids
produce the oily lipid layer that reduces evaporation of tears. Currently treatment options
include many commercially available over-the-counter artificial tear formulations and
one pharmacological agent aimed at immune associated CDES. Although, a number of
products are in developments there is a clear need for artificial tears that mimic essential
properties of human tears.
Aqueous formulation of artificial tears based on the natural lipids of the
meibomian secretions:
Meibomian secretions are composed of a heterogenous lipid mixture, which forms
a protective lipid surface that maintains the integrity of the tear film. This invention
provides an aqueous formulation of artificial tears based on the natural lipids of the
meibomian secretions. The inventors have identified at the molecular level the genes and
corresponding enzymes that produce the lipid components of human tears. In addition,
they have developed an expression system and purification protocol of these lipids.
Furthermore, the potential exists to precisely control the physiological properties of these
lipids.
Market Overview:
As one of the most common ocular problems there is a clear market opportunity
for this technology. In the United States alone, 5.5 million individuals suffer from some
form of chronic dry eye. In addition, with only one product currently on the market there
is significant potential for other treatment options. Thus, the market is still in its infancy
with substantial growth opportunity. Frost and Sullivan estimate that although the market
was nearly $200 million in 2005 they forecast a $1.5 billion market by 2012.
Patent Status: Patent Pending
Licensing Status: Available for Licensing and Sponsored Research Support