Vision and Ophthalmology

A large part of our research is clinical in nature, with a direct impact for patients (clinical trials, clinical decision models) and society (efficiency research and cost-effectiveness models). Identification of risk factors for disease progression and imaging contribute to a better strategy in timing and selection of the appropriate treatment strategy and contribute directly to sustainable care by preventing diseases. The role of nutrition in eye diseases is another factor that is studied to prevent and delay disease progress.

Unique contributions and highlights

• New imaging techniques are being developed for early detection and prevention of glaucoma in first line ophthalmology.
• State of the art imaging technology is used for early detection of corneal dystrophies. Application of customised lamellar transplants and bio-engineered tissues improve the outcomes of transplantation surgery in corneal disease.
• We are developing computer-assisted characterization of blood vessels in the retina (fundomics) as a powerful tool to estimate risk for cardiovascular disease risk to be implemented in general practices.  
• Tears will be used develop novel biomarkers to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias and to advance the development of more targeted treatments.