Dunfermline-based Optos has revealed a potential £10 million deal with the academic sector to develop new sight-loss detection technologies.

The company will work with scientists and clinicians from NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, as well as with the universities of Strathclyde and Kent, to develop imaging systems capable of identifying sight-threatening eye disease at an early stage.

Optos and Innovate UK are undertaking the initial £1.1 million study, with research aiming to develop an enhanced laser technology that can monitor the function of the cells in the eye and flag up any signs of developing eye diseases.

The first clinical studies will focus on the leading causes of blindness (age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy); they are expected to be completed in the first half of 2017. If the first-stage trials are successful, a further £9 million will be invested in developing a device for the NHS by 2018.

Optos chief executive Roy Davis (pictured) said: “We are delighted to play a key role in this important collaboration with the NHS, supported by clinical research. Blindness is a largely preventable disease that we believe can be addressed through earlier detection. Optos strives to create the tools for professionals at the forefront of eye care and disease management.”