SUMMARY OF RESEARCH DURING 2004
(14 MD’s; 12 PhD’s; 41 publications; 4 book chapters) Significant Scientific Accomplishments
• Retinal studies provided new evidence that vitamin A, a compound essential for formation of visual pigments in the photosensitive rods of the retina, is also necessary for the normal health of cone photoreceptors, which are responsible for color vision. Retinal studies identified that diverse types of retinal degeneration involve the activation of common genes, and that the expression of specific proteins can protect the retina from ischemia and elevated IOP.
• Adult stem cells provided evidence that these cells can move into the eye and differentiate into retinal neurons, as well as other cell types.
• Glaucoma studies identified specific cellular control points that help regulate how fluid exits the eye and controls IOP.
• Lens studies have identified specific enzymes that are altered by steroid administration, and lead to abnormal lens growth and cataract development. Lens implant and refractive surgery studies investigated how corneal tissues and lens cells respond after placement of newer implanted devices or after the use of newer mechanical devices. |
