On World Sight Day, South East Technological University (SETU) is highlighting the work of the Ocular Therapeutics Research Group (OTRG), a team dedicated to advancing new treatments for eye disease and sight loss.
Founded in 2017 by Dr Laurence Fitzhenry, the OTRG is focused on developing advanced therapies and delivery systems to improve outcomes for people living with both chronic and acute eye conditions. The group designs nano- and micro-formulations, explores innovative drug delivery technologies, and develops novel therapies with the potential to transform patient care.
While eye health is at the heart of OTRG’s mission, its research extends beyond ophthalmology.
The group’s expertise has been applied to pressing global health challenges, including Covid-19 and antimicrobial resistance. Since its establishment, OTRG has secured over €13 million in research funding, including a prestigious €4 million Marie Skłodowska-Curie (MSCA) Innovative Training Network and, this year, a €3.1 million MSCA INNOVISION COFUND to advance international research in vision and sight loss. This achievement makes SETU the first Technological University in Ireland to coordinate a Horizon Europe MSCA COFUND programme.
Reflecting its global leadership in vision research, two OTRG researchers, Dr Sweta Rani and Dr Marcos Mariano, are ranked among the world’s top 2% of scientists.
Engaging patients in research
A distinctive strength of OTRG is its integration of Public Patient Involvement and Engagement (PPIE). This approach moves research beyond being conducted “on” patients to being conducted “with” patients, ensuring projects address real needs and deliver user-friendly outcomes.
So far, OTRG has worked with more than 700 contributors through PPIE and is embedding this practice into SETU’s PhD programmes and its new Pharmacy programme. In recognition of this work, SETU has joined the national PPI Ignite Network, with Dr Fitzhenry serving as co-lead researcher for the university. In addition, the research centre’s Programme Manager, Tess Ames co-developed the NO TEARS Framework, which has become a national reference point for PPI in lab-based drug development.
Research with industry impact
The group also has a strong record of industry collaboration. One example is the TU RISE postdoctoral project of researcher Dr Sreeraj Manikandan, supervised by Dr Rani and Dr Fitzhenry, which explores new approaches to treating age-related eye and neurodegenerative conditions.
Speaking about his research, Sreeraj explains, “Wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a serious eye condition that affects older adults and leads to gradual vision loss. Currently, the main treatment involves monthly injections directly into the eye. This is not only uncomfortable and stressful, but also difficult for many elderly patients to manage, particularly those with mobility issues. The treatment model also puts pressure on healthcare systems and generates significant medical waste from single-use materials like syringes and needles.
"It could transform how we treat not only AMD, but also other diseases affecting the back of the eye."
Dr Sreeraj Manikandan, OTRG
Our research explores a completely new approach: a nasal spray that can be self-administered at home. This would eliminate the need for frequent injections and clinic visits, making treatment much easier and more comfortable for patients. If successful, it could transform how we treat not only AMD, but also other diseases affecting the back of the eye. We’re working closely with EirGen Pharma in Waterford to help move this innovation from the lab into real-world use.”
Shaping the future of eye care
Through its pioneering science, commitment to patient involvement, and industry partnerships, the Ocular Therapeutics Research Group is redefining what is possible in ophthalmology. Its work promises not only to improve treatments and reduce healthcare burdens, but also to contribute to global efforts in tackling major health challenges.
World Sight Day 2025
World Sight Day is an annual event (celebrated this year on 9 October) dedicated to raising awareness about blindness and the importance of eye care. The OTRG team reminds us that almost everyone will face an eye health issue at some point in their lives. Their advice is simple: prioritise your vision and remember to #LoveYourEyes.
