Hundreds of millions worldwide suffer from dry eyes, typically treated with moisturizing and lubricating eye drops or anti-inflammatory products.
The spinout company Otusophta Oy, in collaboration with scientists from the University of Helsinki and the University of Eastern Finland, has developed a new treatment for dry eyes. Their method uses a new technology called RevEye.
This treatment method maintains moisture on the surface of the eye.
Otusophta’s RevEye technology, developed over seven years of research, focuses on the lipid layer of the tear film and the properties of individual lipids. This patented method utilizes physiological lipids to repair gaps in the lipid layer, stabilizing the tear film and creating a protective barrier on the eye’s aqueous layer to prevent evaporation.
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What makes RevEye technology unique is its ability to prevent moisture from evaporating from the surface of the eye.
Existing eye drops mainly prioritize alleviating symptoms of dry eyes, while Otusophta’s technology targets the underlying causes. The treatment uses the eye’s natural lipid layer, making it safe and effective. Additionally, the lipids adhere to the eye’s surface longer than standard moisturizing drops, reducing the frequency of application needed.
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Kari Lehmussaari, CEO of Otusophta Oy, continues, “RevEye technology addresses a significant root cause of dry eyes, which sets it apart from competitors. By using compounds similar to those found in a healthy tear film, we can restore the natural functionality of the tear fluid and prevent excessive evaporation very effectively.”
“The development work continues intensively. Next, we will test the product’s functionality in clinical trials with a suitable partner.”
“There is a great need and demand for a new approach to treating dry eyes in international markets.”
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Kajsa Kajander, COO of Helsinki Innovation Services Ltd, said, “It has been a pleasure to follow and support the preparations for the commercialization of the RevEye innovation. It is an exceptional collaboration in which teams of researchers from two universities have created a good synergy and thus develop a science-based technology into a commercial form.”