Understanding the structural basis of how the eye works (V1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Investigations into the structure/function relationships that exist in ocular tissue
IRAS ID
295549
Contact name
Andrew Quantock
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Cardiff University
Duration of Study in the UK
5 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
The research undertaken by the Structural Biophysics Group at Cardiff University seeks to determine the structure and function relationships that exist in the outer tunic of the eye, and the internal lens, in both health and disease. In particular, we are interested in the organisation of cells, collagen and elastic fibres within the tissues and the contribution of these different structural elements to the overall function of the eye. Such research is needed to better understand why, in numerous diseases, or after surgery, the strength, shape, and in the case of the cornea, also the transparency of the tissue, may be lost. We have pioneered the use of several sophisticated imaging techniques to study ocular tissue at every structural level from the molecules upwards: x-ray scattering, serial block face scanning electron microscopy and two photon fluorescence light microscopy. We are also combining these imaging techniques with mechanical testing of the tissue to allow us to pin point precisely where the structural changes occur when the tissue is distorted during normal functioning or due to disease and/or surgery. This basic science research, using post-mortem donor tissue, provides a platform on which improved diagnostics and new treatments may be developed for sight-loss conditions such as keratoconus, which is characterized by a progressive thinning and weakening of the cornea. The research will also help us to learn more about other conditions such as glaucoma - a common eye condition that involves damage to the optic nerve, myopia - which involves remodelling and weakening of the sclera, and cataracts which involve a clouding of the internal lens of the eye.
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 1
REC reference
21/NS/0091
Date of REC Opinion
1 Jul 2021
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion