The Basque company Bioftalmik has released the findings of three research studies in the global leading ophthalmology research meeting, ARVO 2010, held in Florida on May 3-6. The conference has addressed forefront advances in ophthalmology research and their potential applications in the upcoming years.

Bioftalmik researcher Iker Garcia presented the poster “Molecular diagnosis of limbal deficiency by RT-PCR: detection of mucin MUC5AC transcript in corneal epithelium". This research has been conducted jointly with the Cruces Hospital and the Donostia Hospital.

Another study in which Bioftalmik has taken part, this time jointly with CIC bioGUNE, was presented by researcher Naiara Nieto under the title "Expression and enzymatic activity regulation of carbonic anhydrases in a human non-pigmented epithelium cell line, dependence on cell density".

Likewise, Cristina Irigoyen, from the Donostia Hospital, presented her poster "Proteomic analysis of lens soluble fraction in different types of cataracts", with the collaboration of Bioftalmik in this research.

All three studies are a clear example of the research currently tackled by the Basque company, which has a R&D department that has already developed and validated two new non-invasive platforms for the extraction and analysis of protein and genetic material (Tear Analysis Platform - PAL and Impression Cytology - CI). Thanks to these two new platforms, biomarkers are extracted and validated allowing for the development of products for the diagnosis of eye diseases such as Limbal Deficiency, Glaucoma, Dry Eye, Blepharitis and Paediatric Allergy. Currently, Bioftalmik is developing a prognosis system to determine the success or failure of glaucoma surgery based on changes in gene expression.

In 2010, Bioftalmik expects to patent three new systems for the diagnosis of Children Ocular Allergy, Dry Eye Disease and Blepharitis; in parallel, it will continue with the development of products and services derived from these research projects. Furthermore, the staff will be increased by 20 people and the new 600m2 premises at the Bizkaia Technological Park will be inaugurated.

In 2009, Bioftalmik released first patent for Non-Invasive Limbal Deficiency, and is currently finishing the development of a commercial kit to conduct this diagnosis in health centres and clinical analysis laboratories.