The GROW (Genes, Repair and Regeneration in Ophthalmic Workstation) research unit at Narayana Nethralaya, in collaboration with IBMS (Imaging, Biomechanics and Mathematical Modelling Solutions Lab), has delivered impactful scientific and clinical outcomes that strengthen precision eye care and genetic medicine. This work has contributed to the development of indigenous, cost-effective gene therapy platforms for ocular genetic diseases such as keratoconus, retinitis pigmentosa, and age-related macular degeneration, with the aim of significantly reducing treatment costs compared with global therapies. In parallel, this research has led to non-invasive diagnostic innovations, including tear-based biomarker panels and AI-supported models, enabling earlier detection, improved prediction of disease progression, and more personalised treatment decisions.
Key scientific discoveries from this research have revealed novel molecular, immune, and metabolic mechanisms underlying eye diseases, enabling more effective repurposing of existing drugs and the identification of new therapeutic targets. Together, these advances allow clinicians to intervene earlier, select treatments more precisely, and improve long-term patient outcomes.
Overall, GROW and IBMS have strengthened India’s translational research ecosystem, improved access to advanced yet affordable care, and contributed valuable insights to global biomedical science.
Authors: Matalia H, Francis M, Gangil T, Chandapura R, Kurian M, Shetty R, Nelson E, Sinha Roy A
Keywords: NA
PMID: 28486724
DOI: 10.3928/1081597X-20170201-01
Authors: Anegondi N, Kshirsagar A, Mochi TB, Sinha Roy A
Keywords: NA
PMID: 30021035
DOI: 10.3928/23258160-20180628-04
Authors: Shetty R, Rajiv Kumar N, Pahuja N, Deshmukh R, Vunnava K, Abilash VG, Sinha Roy A, Ghosh A.
Keywords: NA
PMID: 29215396
DOI: 10.1097/ICO.0000000000001478
