Dr. Kaja is investigating the development of a novel experimental system that will use choroidal tissue from human donor eyes to stimulate blood vessel growth experimentally using factors that have been linked to the pathophysiology of both wet AMD and proliferative diabetic retinopathy. This ex-vivo system will then be used to evaluate drugs that target aberrant blood vessel growth.
The development of this model could provide a more physiologically relevant way to study disease mechanisms and test potential treatments. It may help identify new drug targets and improve the development of therapies for these vision-threatening conditions.
From left, Metha Chea, BS, Dr. Gonzalo Torres, Eversight Partner Relations Director Sara McKoy, Simon Kaja, PhD, Emily Krupa, BS, Dr. Lee Troughton, Melanie Bollnow
Dr. Verma is investigating the characterization of the composition of the extracellular matrix (ECM) within the limbal stem cell niche and thereafter investigate whether the supplementation of the key ECM components could be used to support limbal epithelial stem cells within human donor corneas during hypothermic storage.
This research could improve donor cornea preservation and enhance limbal epithelial stem cell viability, potentially benefiting corneal transplantation and regenerative therapies.
Sudhir Verma, PhD
Dr. Hatami-Marbini is investigating the composition and microstructure of normal human and keratoconus corneal extracellular matrix (ECM). The long-term goal of this work is to alter the proteoglycans (PG) content in vitro and in vivo in a controlled way so that the structural functions of PGs in microstructure and biomechanical properties are fully understood.
Findings could contribute to the development of targeted treatments for keratoconus, such as therapies that restore or enhance corneal biomechanics, potentially improving vision outcomes for affected individuals.
From left, Eversight Partner Relations Director Sara McKoy and Hamed Hatami-Marbini, PhD
Dr. Aakalu is investigating testing molecules that target a specific pathway that is important in driving ocular surface squamous neoplasia and may be better tolerated by patients. This work will support the development of novel and more effective and safer treatments for ocular surface squamous neoplasia.
This research could lead to improved patient outcomes and reduced side effects, ultimately advancing treatment options for this vision-threatening disease.
From left, Eversight Partner Relations Director Ebony Johnson, Vinay Aakalu, MD and Eversight Philanthropy Director of Foundations & Corporations Becky Harris
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