Retina Regeneration Therapy (Ellex 2RT™) is a research project aimed at developing a non-damaging laser treatment that stimulates the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) to preserve vision. As a possible therapy for early age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other retinal diseases, Ellex 2RT™ aims to treat the cause of the disease, before vision loss occurs.

If successful, Ellex 2RT™ will significantly improve the quality of life of millions of elderly people and reduce health care expenditure worldwide.

Initial laboratory studies successfully demonstrated that Ellex 2RT™ can be used to influence the early cause of AMD by triggering a cell regeneration process to improve the transport properties of Bruch’s membrane and thereby partially reverse the degradation that could lead to Wet or Dry AMD. Further laboratory studies measuring the hydroconductivity of Bruch’s membrane have also shown that Ellex 2RT™ rejuvenates the whole transport mechanism of the retina. Clinical trials are currently underway to validate the efficacy of Ellex 2RT™ for a number of clinical indications, the most important of which is AMD, and we look forward to updating you on our progress.

Folgt in Kürze.

Ellex Medical Lasers Limited (ASX: ELX), a global leader in the design and manufacture of ophthalmic laser and ultrasound systems, today announced the launch of a new yellow laser photocoagulator, Integre Yellow™, at the 33rd Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Ophthalmic Surgeons (JSOS) in Tokyo.

The Integre Yellow™ is the first and only laser system to offer high-power 561nm yellow in a unique, fully integrated design. The yellow wavelength is considered a more gentle and patient-friendly option than other laser wavelengths used in ophthalmology to treat sight-threatening eye diseases, such as diabetic retinopathy.

“Compared to traditional 514/532nm green wavelengths, 561nm yellow creates a more gentle retinal burn and results in low scotoma (blind spot) formation. Most importantly, treatment can be performed at lower energy settings, thereby improving patient comfort,” commented Ellex CEO, Simon Luscombe.

The yellow wavelength was first introduced in ophthalmology in argon-pumped dye laser systems. These systems were bulky, required high levels of energy, and were expensive to maintain and service. Modern-day laser systems offer the benefits of solid-state laser technology, but still require the use of external fibers and connectors, which degrade overall system performance.

In contrast, the fully integrated design of the Integre Yellow™ provides improved working distance and ergonomics in order to optimize practice efficiency, and completely eliminates the need for external adapters or fibers. This unique, integrated design has been the key driver for the worldwide success of the Ellex Integre® family of photocoagulators.

“With the introduction of the Integre Yellow™ we are confident of satisfying the need for an efficient, reliable and ergonomic yellow laser system in the Japanese market, and of cementing Ellex’s position as the leading ophthalmic technology provider in Japan,” said Mr. Luscombe.

The Integre Yellow™ will be launched at the Ellex exhibit during the JSOS in Tokyo, with US, European and Australian releases scheduled for later in 2010.