Prof. Dr Michael Levin 

 "Bioelectricity in the origin and future of the visual system" 

It is well known that our body processes visual data using electric communication between cells. In this talk, I will tell the story of developmental bioelectricity - an ancient precursor of brain function, in which all cells in the body merge into electric networks that process information, make decisions, and store memories. Whereas nerve networks process visual information for behaviour in 3D space, other cellular networks process biophysical and biochemical information to establish and repair the anatomical structure of the body. I will show examples from embryonic development and sensory-motor plasticity, especially focused on the visual system. Using model systems such as the frog, we work to understand how to communicate with the collective intelligence of the body in ways that facilitate novel therapeutics in regenerative medicine.

Prof. Dr Mingguang HE, MD PhD FRANZCO

Repeated low-level red-light therapy: a new way to control myopia?

Abstract

The presentation examines the use of Repeated Low-level Red-light Therapy (RLRL) as a home device for myopia control. Utilizing a patented diode laser emitting 650 ± 10 nm wavelength light, the therapy is administered twice daily. It has shown 69.4% efficacy in controlling axial length elongation and 76.6% in slowing spherical equivalent refraction progression, with more pronounced effects in severe myopia. Safety evaluations according to ANSI Z80.36-2021 and FDA standards designate the device as a Group 1 instrument, indicating no potential light hazards. The device is approved in multiple regions including the EU, UK, Australia, and New Zealand. Clinical trials reveal no significant adverse effects, and multifocal ERG studies confirm no retinal damage. Long-term studies over three years also show no structural or functional damages, though rare complications like potential light injuries in super-responders have been documented. The presentation underscores the importance of monitoring visual acuity and symptoms such as prolonged after-images in users, particularly to identify super-responders. Despite high efficacy and safety profiles, continued vigilance in monitoring and reporting adverse effects is crucial to ensure the therapy's ongoing safety and effectiveness.

Dr Josef Thiel

AOMeister, Functional Optometrist, Behavioural Optometrist, FBOAF, FCSO, FEASO

My Experience with Syntonics. Special Cases

Since 2005, Josef Thiel has been working in his own practice for functional optometry in the service of "good vision". However, the state-certified master optician and optometrist has been working as an expert in vision problems for over 35 years. From 1982 to 2014, he also managed the optician's shop "Thiel – See for yourself!" in Lindenberg in the Allgäu.

Motivated by the motivation to be able to help people where "their learned visual skills are not sufficient to cope with the visual demands placed on them", he turned primarily to functional optometry in 2014 and founded the INSTITUT SEHEN in Weißensberg near Lindau on Lake Constance.