Retina Implant gains approval for extended European clinical trials

Retina Implant's scientific advisory board has approved the expansion of the European clinical trials for its subretinal implants for retinitis pigmentosa patients.

The trial commenced in Tübingen, Gemany in 2010. The multicentre phase of Retina Implant's second human clinical trial will take place in Germany, Budapest, London and Oxford. The study involves patients keeping the implant in permanently so it can be used in everyday situations.

Nine patients were implanted with Retina Implant's wireless device between May 2010 and July 2011. The findings saw patients presenting with the best visual acuity recorded so far. The majority of patients experienced restored vision for everyday life. Visual perception in dim and bright environments was achieved in a significant number of patients.

Professor MacLaren, professor of ophthalmology at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, said, "We are delighted to be involved in testing this pioneering subretinal implant technology. The results achieved by the Retina Implant team to-date represent a significant advance in this technology that could greatly enhance the quality of life for people with an incurable, blinding disease."

Dr Walter G. Wrobel, CEO of Retina Implant, said, "We are pleased that after reviewing the results of the first nine patients in the trial, the scientific advisory board is in agreement that the next stage of our research should begin. The Board's continued support reinforces the progress Retina Implant continues to make on our journey to permanently restore useful vision to retinitis pigmentosa patients."