Eye imaging – Using the eye as a window to the brain
The eye is a developmental extension of the brain, and as such it shares many resources and has a direct neurological link via the retina and optic nerve.
The primary goal of this project is to establish the existence of a link between the retinal structure and the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. This has the potential to improve many aspects of early screening for Alzheimer’s disease.
The hyperspectral retinal imaging project is a novel technique that has the potential to improve many aspects of early screening for Alzheimer’s disease. The research team is developing a process that would allow for a non-invasive scan that would not require expensive facilities or equipment, compared to current diagnostic procedures which require costly brain imaging scans.
A highly specialised piece of equipment called a hyperspectral camera allows imaging of the retina using a range of specific wavelengths, without the need for any dyes or stains to be applied to the eye. Due to the large amount of spectral data in each image, software using machine learning techniques is being developed to analyse the images.
The prototype has been considered a breakthrough device by the National Institute of Health (NIH) in the USA. Further research must be conducted to determine whether the instrument can show reproducible data in clinical settings. If so, then the NIH will support the acceleration of its development into a clinically available device for the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s.
The main instrument used is provided by industry partner Optina Diagnostics, the manufacturer of the hyperspectral instrument, and allows imaging of the retina at a range of specific wavelengths without the need for any dyes or stains to be applied to the eye.
Images are collected at very high speed – 92 per second – while the patient sees a rapid rainbow of colours. Each scan collects millions of pixels of data. The images will be analysed using machine learning (also known as Artificial Intelligence) due to the large amount of spectral data they contain.
The impact
This project has the potential to develop a cost-effective, widely available and non-invasive retina scan for the diagnosis and monitoring of Alzheimer’s disease. This could potentially slow down the progression of the disease and improve quality of life.
