Retina Information Day: Bridging basic research, therapeutic application, and self-help in retinal diseases

The 13. Retina Information Day took place on November 12, 2022, at the Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD) at TU Dresden. The hybrid event attracted 55 visitors in person and 65 online. Participants received information on the latest developments in basic research, and clinical practice, as well as new possibilities for self-help for diseases such as retinitis pigmentosa, age-related macular degeneration, and glaucoma. This annual event is jointly organized by the Center for Regenerative Therapies Dresden (CRTD) at TU Dresden, the Max Planck Institute of Molecular Cell Biology and Genetics (MPI-CBG), and the self-help association PRO RETINA Deutschland e.V.

A lecture on treatment options for advanced age-related macular degeneration (PD Dr. med. Boris Stanzel, Augenklinik Sulzbach and Knappschaftsklinikum Saar GmbH) opened the day, followed by a presentation of the naviBelt (feelSpace GmbH). After a coffee break, Dr. med. Dierk Wittig from the University Hospital Dresden presented an overview of the therapy options for age-related macular degeneration and Prof. Dr. Marius Ader from the CRTD discussed his latest research on the photoreceptor replacement by cell transplantation. The highlight of the event was the official closing of the summer rowing challenge in which Ms. Anne Kinski (PRO RETINA Deutschland e.V.) collected over 12 thousand Euros for Prof. Ader’s research at the CRTD. The event was finished with an open discussion forum where the speakers of the day answered questions from the audience. During the coffee and lunch break, several partners presented their work at the information booths.

These diverse contributions bridge basic research with therapeutic applications and integrate the valuable work of self-help groups. Many of the research approaches aim to facilitate therapies for the treatment of visual impairment and thus improve the quality of life of those affected. Recent years have also shown that many people with visual impairments and their relatives come to Retina Day not only to hear about the latest research but also to talk to other people affected and build a network. We are very happy to see this trend and thank all guests and partners involved for creating such a platform.