PeriVision secures CHF 1.1 million grant for retinal disease research

PeriVision, in collaboration with Inselspital and the University of Bern, has received CHF 1.1 million to develop novel, AI-driven eye tests for retinal diseases like age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.

PeriVision, a spin-off from the University of Bern and the Inselspital, has partnered with these institutions to develop advanced eye tests for retinal diseases under a CHF 1.1 million research grant. Retinal diseases such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy (DR) are expected to increase dramatically, affecting millions of people worldwide.

Currently, functional eye testing for AMD and DR patients is limited. Patients with central vision loss, such as those with AMD, have difficulty performing standard tests such as visual acuity testing. While microperimetry offers an alternative, it is time consuming and requires significant resources, making it less feasible for widespread use. This highlights the need for more efficient and patient-friendly solutions.

Building on their expertise in combining cutting-edge technologies – such as artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality (VR) and eye tracking – the partners aim to develop innovative, fixation-independent eye tests. These new tests will help ophthalmologists better assess patients’ visual function and ensure more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans, especially in resource-limited settings.

Addressing the unmet needs of patients with retinal diseases

PeriVision’s VisionOne platform, which uses VR headsets and AI to optimize eye exams, has previously been highlighted for its potential to transform glaucoma diagnostics. Now, with this new partnership, PeriVision is expanding its capabilities to address retinal disease.

In the company’s press release, Prof. Dr. Raphael Sznitman from the University of Bern emphasized the strength of the collaboration, citing the long-standing partnership between the ARTORG Center and the Inselspital. The project aims not only to improve clinical assessments, but also to advance the development of cloud-based eye care solutions.

This initiative builds on the success of PeriVision’s earlier work in glaucoma and represents a significant step forward in addressing the unmet needs of patients with retinal diseases.