Overview

Overview

Ophthalmic Research

Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute is at the forefront of innovative basic, clinical and translational research on the physiology of vision and the pathological conditions that lead to vision loss. The department of ophthalmic research is currently chaired by Bela Anand-Apte, MBBS, PhD.

The faculty in the department are involved in multi-disciplinary and highly collaborative approaches using both basic science and clinical investigation, which serves as the basis for exploring and evaluating treatment strategies to slow and prevent vision loss. Disorders currently being investigated include retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration (both inherited and age-related forms), diabetic retinopathy, retinopathy of prematurity, ciliopathies, glaucoma, uveal melanoma, amblyopia and corneal disorders such as infections, wound healing and repair. There is a concentrated focus on innovative strategies to improve imaging modalities for the eye as diagnostic as well as intra-operative tools. Stem cell approaches for therapeutics are also being investigated.

One of the many strengths of the department of ophthalmology is the close interaction between basic science researchers and clinicians who are committed to achieving a common goal of preventing vision loss. This cohesive community of investigators fosters innovation through collaboration and allows the movement of ideas from both bench to bedside and bedside to bench.

Research Labs