Dr. Jeff Olson with researchers in the Department of Ophthalmology have developed an implantable device placed surgically into the vitreous cavity. The porous material (such as hydroxyapatite, ceramics, etc) can be preloaded with drug, such as those used to treat macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, etc. The drug is slowly released from the porous substrate. Secondarily, the porous material acts as a filter as it traps endogenous molecules such as VEGF, which are known to cause exudative complications in macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. The filter can then be surgically removed or replaced. Additionally, the porous material can be heated via thermal laser or other method to denature the attached proteins.