As indicated by the National Eye Institute, the prevalence of myopia is rapidly rising in the US. Our research lab focuses on better understanding the mechanisms of myopia development and progression and novel treatment options. We are a unique group of researchers with diverse expertise that focus on both animal and human models of myopia.
Research Topics and Background
What is Myopia?
The main focus of our research is refractive development and myopia (short-sightedness). Myopia is a very common ocular disorder, with significant impact on health care costs, related to its management with spectacles, contact lenses and refractive surgery, and to the treatment of its complications, high myopia being a leading cause of blindness.
The main focus of our research is refractive development and myopia (short-sightedness). Myopia is a very common ocular disorder, with significant impact on health care costs, related to its management with spectacles, contact lenses and refractive surgery, and to the treatment of its complications, high myopia being a leading cause of blindness.
How Prevalent is Myopia?
Research Topics
Our lab uses both a chick and guinea pig model to study myopia. Of the many questions waiting to be answered using this model, ones of interest to us:
We also do human-based clinical research to better understand and optimize the optical and pharmacological myopia control treatments available in clinic. Using new technologies, including wearable devices, we are understanding the role of human behavior in the development of myopia. Through this work, many questions are ripe for answering, such as:
- Why role does excessive near work play in the development of myopia?
- What aspects of outdoor activity might be protective against myopia?
- How do the choroid and sclera contribute to emmetropization?
- What treatments can be done to stop the progression of myopia?
- What is the role of optical aberrations in myopia development?
