Advanced Corneal Systems

Advanced Corneal Systems was a biotechnology company specializing in the development of enzymatic therapies for ophthalmic conditions. The company's primary focus was the development of Vitrase, a highly purified ovine hyaluronidase enzyme. Vitrase was designed to treat vitreous hemorrhage by liquefying the vitreous humor and was also utilized as a spreading agent to enhance the diffusion of local anesthetics during eye surgery. Headquartered in Irvine, California, the company was a leader in the application of hyaluronidase technology within the field of ophthalmology. In 2002, Advanced Corneal Systems was acquired by Ista Pharmaceuticals for approximately $26 million in stock. Following the acquisition, its lead product continued through the regulatory process and received FDA approval, eventually becoming part of the Bausch + Lomb portfolio.