South East Technological University (SETU) scientist Dr Laurence Fitzhenry has been granted two international patents for new eye drop technologies that could be the first step in helping to transform treatment for millions of people worldwide.
The patents, issued by the United States and European patent offices, recognise innovative nanomedicine drops designed for ocular drug delivery, developed by Dr Fitzhenry and his team at the Ocular Therapeutics Research Group (OTRG). The formulations could help medicine reach the eye more effectively than traditional drops, potentially staying in place longer and improving drug absorption.
Dr Fitzhenry worked closely with SETU’s Technology Transfer Office (TTO) throughout the patent process. The TTO team played a key role in guiding the application, ensuring the innovations were protected, and helping position the technology for future commercial collaboration.
Turning research into real-world therapies
“These patents mark an exciting milestone for our team,” said Dr Fitzhenry. “Our aim is to make eye treatments work better for patients, and the granting of these patents helps us move one step closer to turning our research into real-world therapies by generating knowledge that could one day form the basis for a marketed treatment.”
The technologies could help improve treatment for conditions like dry eye disease but could potentially be applied to other conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease.
“At SETU, the OTRG is bridging the gap between academic discovery and real-world impact. Our focus on vision health exemplifies how translational research can directly improve patients’ lives,” said Tess Ames, Research Programmes Manager, OTRG.
This success demonstrates how SETU researchers are creating intellectual property with the potential for global impact."
Dr James O' Sullivan, Head of Innovation and Commercialisation
Dr James O’Sullivan, Head of Innovation and Commercialisation at SETU, added: “This success demonstrates how SETU researchers are creating intellectual property with the potential for global impact. Protecting these innovations not only paves the way for new treatments but also strengthens SETU’s ability to partner with industry.”
With these patents, SETU and the OTRG continue to build their reputation as leaders in eye health research, fostering collaboration between science, innovation, and enterprise to deliver impact for patients worldwide
For more information on the OTRG, please click here.
