A team of neuroscientists, based at the University of Oxford, running the KOALA study, investigating the brain’s involvement in amblyopia and occlusion therapy during childhood, is seeking amblyopic patients and controls with normal vision.

A leaflet with further information for sharing with patients and their carers can be downloaded here.

They are currently recruiting 5-8 year old amblyopic patients and controls with normal vision to take part in this research. They have until 1st March 2027 to recruit the remaining 31 amblyopic patients and 22 participants with normal vision.

It is an MRI brain imaging study which is investigating (1) differences in the brain between children who have amblyopia and those who have normal vision and (2) how amblyopic children’s brains change with their occlusion therapy. They hope this research will lead to better understanding of amblyopia, brain plasticity, and ultimately better treatment for individuals for whom occlusion therapy does not treat their amblyopia.

KOALA study recruitment to date

To date, 4 amblyopic patients and 13 participants with normal vision have taken part in this study. They are working with NHS Orthoptists at KOALA study sites/ PICs across Oxford University Hospitals, Moorfields, and Buckinghamshire NHS trusts.

What taking part in the KOALA study involves for participants

5-8 year old participants have two study visits in Oxford. Amblyopic patients’ first study visit takes place at the start of their occlusion therapy, and the second study visit takes place after 6 months of their occlusion therapy. Each study visit involves an MRI scan and vision tests. Amblyopic patients have their standard NHS treatment and controls have no intervention.

Before data collection, extensive consideration was given to make all aspects of the study child-friendly, including the MRI scan and vision tests. Participants frequently feedback how much they enjoy taking part and how much they look forward to returning to Oxford for their second MRI scan.