Research News

Cornea specialist receives grant to study corneal epithelium regeneration

Ali Djalilian MD, assistant professor and member of the Cornea Service, has received a grant from the Fight for Sight Foundation for his research on regeneration of corneal epithelium

The surface of the cornea is covered by a thin layer of specialized skin called the epithelium, which is essential for keeping the cornea clear. This layer can be damaged in many conditions, including corneal abrasions, infections, or chemical injuries. Djalilian’s research will determine how the cells in this layer regenerated. He will use mouse models to examine a special group of genes (Notch genes) to determine their role in regenerating the corneal epithelium. Ultimately, Djalilian hopes to develop techniques to regenerate the corneal epithelium in patients who have had significant damage to the surface of their eye. Such novel techniques would offer better treatment options for corneal abrasions and injuries.

Djalilian received his MD from the University of Minnesota in 2000. He was awarded the Harry S. Friedman Resident Research award in 1999 for his exceptional research contributions. Djalilian has seen patients in the Cornea Service and conducted research in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences since joining the department in 2005.

Fight for Sight was established in 1946 to fund and support research in vision-related diseases. In recent years, the foundation has awarded grants for research in areas of age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, AIDS-related eye disorders, cataract, uveitis, and corneal transplantation, among others.

by Poornima Krishnan