Research Interests

I am interested in modeling retinal degenerations and understanding the pathophysiology driving retinal diseases. Based on new insights from basic retinal biology, I am motivated to look for diagnostic and therapeutic tools for the treatment of patients with these conditions. I am also interested in reducing the burden of childhood blindness through improvements to expedite the diagnosis of pediatric retinal conditions. By coordinating research with the needs shared by my patients, I hope to make a difference in the fight against blindness.

Gene therapy for age-related macular degeneration

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in the developed world. AMD is multifactorial, but some of the most significant risk factors for AMD include advanced age, environmental risks, and genetic risk. In the protein complement factor H, the Y402 variant confers low risk for AMD, but the H402 variant confers high risk for AMD. To study AMD and potential gene therapies, I am working in the AMD-like mouse (aged to 100 weeks, high fat/high cholesterol diet [environmental], CFH-HH [genetic risk]) generated by Catherine Bowes Rickman, PhD.

Improving standards for pediatric retina screening through imaging and artificial intelligence

Childhood blindness is the second leading cause for the global burden of eye disease. Many causes for pediatric retinal diseases are especially insidious and are not easily detected. Using ultra-widefield (UWF) fundus imaging, I am working to improve pediatric retina screening standards. As part of the PRAISE study (Pediatric Retina Artificial Intelligence Screening Evaluation) led by Lejla Vajzovic, I am working to support primary pediatric care (at the pediatrician's office) through implementation of retina screening that fills existing gaps in pediatric eye care. This work will help to identify pediatric patients with an eye problem sooner and expedite their referral to a pediatric retina specialist.