Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

I-MED Pharma Inc. (I-MED) provides innovative ocular surface disease (OSD) solutions to the globaloptometry and ophthalmology community-based care sectors. With a focus on research, I-MED Pharma'svision is to be the leading dry eye and OSD company in the world. Currently, they offer a complete range ofOSD products, including diagnostic tools, artificial tears, ocular hygiene cleansers, and therapeutic accessories.The Demodex mite, which can cause Dry Eye Disease and other ailments, can be maintained at a harmlesslevel using some natural products. However, current products have been shown in vitro to have potentiallyharmful effects on eye glands. I-MED Pharma will collaborate with Seneca's School of Biological Sciences andApplied Chemistry to develop an eye wipe formulation with an active ingredient that limits proliferation ofDemodex mites without irritating the eye and eye-physiology. Led by Professors Sonal Kamath and SharonRobertson, student Research Assistants (RAs) from Seneca's Cosmetic Sciences Graduate Certificate programwill apply their academic knowledge and skills, while developing practical experience in formulation andevaluating product efficacy, to create a prototype formulation of a TTO-free wipe designed to be effectiveagainst Demodex mites that does not cause irritation to the eye. This new formulation will reinforce I-MED'sposition in the global market as a leader in dry eye care and eye hygiene.