Stem Cells and Regeneration
Human retinal organoid with neuronal projections marked in white
Stem CELL Derived retinal organoids
Using the latest in stem cell technology and culture, we have established a unique retinal organoid platform from which new retinal tissues can be generated in the lab for regenerative applications using any person's own stem cells.
Regenerative Cellular Therapies
Using our retinal oganoid platform as well as direct differentiation protocols, we generate new retinal cells for cellular therapies to replace lost tissues. We are now working on the best approach to cellular transplantation and engraftment of these regenerative cells.
Retinal organoid-derived human retinal ganglion cells (RGC) transplanted into an ILM-modulated mouse retina
Frog retina with regenerating Muller Glia cells labeled in white
Endogenous Regeneration
Some species can regenerate their eyes and reestablish vision following blinding injuries. Why and when mammals lost this ability is a matter of great interest to the field. We study mechanisms for endogenous repair with the hopes of harnessing nature's amazing power to induce regeneration from within the human eye.
Gene Therapy and editing
The eye is an ideal organ for genetic therapies and gene editing approaches as we can target the desired tissues directly in a well confined environment. In the lab, we develop several genetic therapies and gene editing strategies to exert regeneration of lost and dysfunctional tissues