Research & Innovation

The Eye Bank Resolution that created the Minnesota Lions Eye Bank (now Lions Gift of Sight) in 1960 explicitly stated that the eye bank was founded for both "cornea transplants" and "vital research on eyes." Lions Gift of Sight has advanced innovative research for more than 65 years.

In 2019, the eye bank established a dedicated Research and Development department and continues to improve lives through scientific advancements and innovation.

Limbal Stem Cells
Descemet's Membrane
Transplant Technology

COVID-19
(SARS-CoV-2)
Research

Nanothin
DSAEK
Graft Processing

Endothelial Cell
Viability and
Graft Evaluation

Relaxing Hinges
DMEK
Graft Processing

Graft Storage
and Delivery
Optimization

In-House Research Endeavors

In addition to providing tissue to researchers locally and around the world, Lions Gift of Sight has many in-house research and development projects that contribute to the field of ophthalmology, the evolution of corneal transplants and the advancement of science. These include innovations in packaging, processing and Kerify, a cloud-based, automated computer vision software system to visualize the health of the entire graft area of a cornea for endothelial keratoplasty. Our team also developed the solution, now used worldwide, that preserves corneal tissue for transplant.