Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology (IoO) and Topcon Healthcare today announced the launch of Cascader Limited. The new medical technology company aims to transform the detection and management of eye disease through artificial intelligence.
Cascader builds on the growing field of Oculomics, the use of advanced retinal imaging to uncover insights into systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration and dementia.
Strategic Partnership
Cascader represents a strategic partnership between world-leading academic and clinical institutions and a global health care technology provider. Cascader merges Moorfields and UCL IoO’s AI research with Topcon Healthcare’s technical expertise and global reach. UCL Business helped establish the venture.
Headquartered in London, Cascader focuses on accelerating the translation of cutting-edge AI from research into real-world clinical tools. This allows novel diagnostic technologies to reach patients faster.
Focus on Macular Diseases
Cascader will initially focus on macular diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a major cause of vision loss. This builds on previous work with Google DeepMind and the RETFound model published in 2023.
Cascader aims to create AI tools for early and accurate disease detection in eye care. This will enhance Oculomics for precision medicine.
Support from INSIGHT Health Data Research Hub
The INSIGHT Health Data Research Hub, led by Moorfields, will support Cascader as the world’s largest ophthalmic imaging bioresource. INSIGHT comprises over 35 million retinal images linked to clinical metadata and enables secure, anonymized data access for approved researchers. It is supported by advanced AI infrastructure, curation services and active patient involvement.
Cascader marks a significant step in translating Oculomics into clinical care. It also aligns with broader global efforts, including Topcon Healthcare’s Healthcare from the Eye initiative. The goal there is to harness ocular data as a gateway to more proactive, connected and equitable health care.
Leaders are Excited
“We are proud to support the founding of Cascader,” said Peter Ridley, Chief Executive of Moorfields Eye Hospital. “This new venture represents the next step in our commitment to translating world-class clinical research into tangible benefits for patients and the NHS.”
“Topcon is thrilled to partner with Moorfields and the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology on this groundbreaking initiative,” Ali Tafreshi, Chief Executive Officer, Topcon Healthcare, said. “Cascader reflects our shared vision of how AI and ocular data can reshape eyecare and enable new frontiers in precision medicine. This collaboration supports the broader mission of connecting ocular data to better health outcomes – both within eyecare and beyond.”
“At Cascader, our mission is to turn cutting-edge research into clinically robust, scalable solutions that improve lives,” said Ege Ilicak, Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of Cascader. “With deep experience in medical engineering, we’re focused on ensuring that our AI-driven tools meet the highest quality and regulatory standards, while integrating seamlessly into real-world workflows—supporting professionals and empowering patients.”
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