Molecular Mechanisms of Retinal Aging and Age-Related Diseases
Aging is the greatest risk factor for many blinding retinal disorders, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). We investigate how age-associated alterations in gene regulation, cellular stress responses, metabolism, and genome integrity influence retinal function and contribute to disease. By identifying pathways that promote retinal resilience or drive cellular vulnerability, we aim to uncover new opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
Biomarker Discovery and Precision Medicine
Understanding and treating retinal disease requires biomarkers that reflect biological changes, predict disease progression, and guide therapeutic strategies. We integrate multi-omics datasets, computational approaches, and systems biology to identify molecular signatures of retinal aging and degeneration. These studies aim to advance precision approaches tailored to individual disease mechanisms.
Therapeutic Innovation for Vision Preservation
Insights from retinal aging and disease mechanisms provide a foundation for developing therapeutic approaches to combat vision loss. We combine experimental models, gene-based strategies, and translational platforms to identify and evaluate interventions for retinal degeneration. Our goal is to translate discoveries in retinal biology into innovative therapies for patients with vision-threatening diseases.