WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.—Precise Bio, a regenerative medicine company that specializes in bio-fabrication technology, is launching a dedicated ophthalmology business unit. “There has been great excitement among physicians and commercial organizations about our disruptive technology to create eye-related tissues and its potential to transform the treatment of serious ophthalmic diseases and conditions,” said Aryeh Batt, co-founder and chief executive officer of Precise Bio. “Based in part on the requests and suggestions from these key audiences, we are currently pursuing different ophthalmic programs, two of which are being undertaken with collaborators.

“As the first company to transplant a 3D-printed corneal graft in animals, we are uniquely positioned to advance the use of bio-printed tissues in ophthalmology. Establishing a business unit dedicated to realizing this potential will support our future financing strategies and ensure that our financial resources are aligned with the tremendous power of our technology and intellectual property in a market with an estimated cumulative value of $10 billion,” Batt said.

Precise Bio said it has developed an innovative 4D-bio-fabrication technology that comprises cell expansion, bio-materials, processes, printing technology and other required critical technologies. The results of the initial study establish a foundation for future development and progress toward human trials.

The company said its technology platform allows it to advance its printed human cornea program concurrent with the development of other organs and tissues for use in ophthalmic indications. This comprises a broad array of possibilities including retinal patch, vision correction lenticules, solutions for ocular surface diseases and others, according to Precise Bio.