Abstract
Complex lipid-protein
aggregates of fluorescent pigments such as Lipofuscin are formed in the retinal
pigment epithelium (RPE) of the eye as a non-degradable toxic end- product from
phagocytosis of photoreceptor outer segments. Lipofuscin contributes to
age-related macular degeneration and Stargardt disease. It is important to quantify
autofluorescence (AF) intensity arising from Lipofuscin to monitor its levels. Different
aspects of the retina can be imaged using optical coherence tomography (OCT)
and retinal AF imaging. Retinal AF imaging can map the distribution of Lipofuscin
in the RPE. However, AF signals emitted by Lipofuscin travel through many
retinal layers before reaching an imaging receiver, and are attenuated. The existing
retinal AF technologies do not consider the attenuation of fluorescent signals
and thus cannot measure the true level of AF in RPE. It is also difficult to
compare images from different individuals as well as comparing images from the
same person at different times using the current technology. FIU inventors
have developed imaging systems and methods that can accurately monitor the Lipofuscin
levels for retinal disease tracking and treatment. This system relies on a combination of
imagining modalities (OCT and AF) and can correct for varying optical
properties found in the optical path between the RPE layer and an image
receiver. Moreover, the invention can also establish standard AF levels for
different age groups, delineate the correlation between abnormal AF intensities
and disease stages locally and globally. FIU is looking for business partners
to commercialize the technology.
Benefit
Effective monitoring of Lipofuscin in the retinal pigment epithelium of an eye. The method can correct for attenuation of fluorescent signals and allow comparison of AF levels in different age groups.
Market Application
The invention has applications for ophthalmology clinics and can potentially replace the existing technologies for accurately monitoring Lipofuscin in various applications.
Brochure
