The Squid Glaucoma hybridShunt (SGS) is a hybrid device that combines features of a glaucoma drainage device (GDD) and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) device. This is a joint project between The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and the Veterans Administration. This summary is non-confidential, and more information is available upon the signing of an NDA.
The proposed Squid Glaucoma hybridShunt is based on the architecture of the human collector channel-aqueous/episcleral venous system and will provide a slow and controlled release of AH through a much narrower tube compared to current GDDs [f =150 µm v. f=303 µm]. Aqueous humor release is further regulated by a 50 µm channel located between two enclosed chambers, reducing AH outflow, which minimizes inflammation, fibrosis, and other vision threatening complications while enabling the SGS to slowly reduce IOP.
The SGS is 90% smaller than current GDDs (11.7 vs 184 mm²), and require minimal surgical dissection compared to the incision needed for current GDDs (3 mm vs 10 mm), which eliminates the need for scleral/corneal patches. Additionally, we are proposing to develop a coating for the SGS with a novel solution, as part of our CDMRP application. This solution will also help in the reduction of surgery and AH induced inflammation.
Our proposed innovative approach in developing the SGS hybrid device leverages the advantage of biomimetic solutions and a design to address the key limitations of existing GDDs. By integrating advanced microfabrication techniques and flow-regulating structures inspired by natural AH outflow pathways, we aim to develop a next-generation device that minimizes surgical trauma, reduces fibrosis and inflammation, and enhances long-term functionality.
We submitted an NIH SBIR Phase I grant proposal (April 2025) with an anticipated start date of Q1 2026. We will be seeking SBIR Phase II support next year for development and commercialization, licensing opportunities with industry partners, and angel and family office funding to accelerate SGS development.
We have applied for a Department of Defense CDMRP grant ($3.5M), scheduled for application in July 2025 and execution in 2026. We are also seeking to develop drug delivery solutions as part of our CDMRP application. We have several solutions which we will test as part of the grant program.
We are targeting the glaucoma market that affects over 80 million patients worldwide, including 3.5 million in the USA, making it the second leading cause of blindness. The global glaucoma surgery devices market size was estimated to reach $1.57 billion in 2022 and is estimated to increase at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.61% during the forecast period.
The SGS will provide clinicians with an effective, reliable, and affordable solution to manage IOP in patients with glaucoma. Through our applications for SBIR Phase 1 grant and the CDMRP grant, our goal is to submit data for FDA 510(k) clearance as a Class II medical device.
We are seeking license and collaboration opportunities with industry players and Angel / VC groups.
Earle Hager
Managing Partner
The Neutrino Donut, LLC / Neutrino Donut Project One, LLC
Los Angeles / Austin / Omaha
+1 512-431-3940
