Effect of 670 nm Light on Retinal Function in Birdshot V1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An Exploratory Study of the Effect of 670 nm LED Exposure on Retinal Function in Birdshot Chorioretinopathy
IRAS ID
146329
Contact name
Dave Wilson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University College London
Research summary
Birdshot chorioretinopathy is a chronic inflammatory disease predominantly affecting the choroid and retina. It has the potential of causing significant visual morbidity and is currently treated with long term oral steroid and immunosuppressants. These agents require intensive monitoring and have significant side effects.
This study evaluates the effect of 670 nm LED light exposure on retinal function and its efficacy in controlling inflammation in birdshot. Exposure to 670 nm light has been shown effective in reducing inflammation in ageing rodent eyes and in the retina in mouse models of diabetic retinopathy. There are no known side effects and the energy commonly used is 2 log units lower than that experienced in indirect daylight.
This is a non randomised pilot study funded by the fight for sight. Eligible HLA A29 positive patients being treated for birdshot chorioretinopathy in Mr Carlos Pavesio's Uveitis clinics at Moorfields Eye Hospital will be invited to participate in this trial. Consenting patients will receive 9 sessions of 60 seconds of exposure to the 670 nm LED light over a period of three consecutive weeks and will have pre and post treatment visual acuity assessment, electroretinography and imaging to monitor the effect of the treatment.
REC name
London - Stanmore Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/LO/2099
Date of REC Opinion
9 Jun 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion