Ophthalmology Study Group
Research The Ophthalmology Study Group studies eye and vision related illnesses and diagnostic methods for their treatment in a broad and multidisciplinary manner using methods of translational, clinical, epidemiological and personalized medicine. Our research laboratories are located on the 3rd floor of the ARVO building (Arvo Ylpön katu 34, Tampere, Finland). In the Finn-Medi 3 building on the same campus area (Biokatu 10) we have a clinical research laboratory where Phase I-IV clinical trials can be carried out. The research group has in vitro and in vivo disease models for research on ocular surface disease, dry eye, adverse drug reactions, age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and retinopathy of prematurity. We have applied our mass spectrometry-based proteomics expertise to the diagnosis of eye and other diseases, in order to develop methods for identification and validation of clinically important biomarkers. This knowledge is also utilized in drug studies. The research team has also actively developed research methods for the imaging of the eye. The prevalence of eye diseases and visual problems, their significance for society and individual and their health-economical impact are studied in co-operation with the National Institute of Health and Welfare and the Finnish Federation of Visually Impaired. The Center for Proteomics and Personalized Medicine, PPM The Center for Proteomics and Personalized Medicine PPM in the Department of Ophthalmology was established at the beginning of 2013 with Tekes’ FiDiPro funding. The primary objective is to identify proteomic biomarkers linked to different eye diseases. These biomarkers are used for personalized medicine to aid the diagnosis, evaluation of response to treatment and monitoring the eye surgery results in individual patients. Studies have concentrated on, for example, ocular surface disease, glaucoma medication, glaucoma surgery, diabetic retinopathy, age-related macular degeneration, stem cell applications and refractive surgery. Research and Development Center for Ophthalmic Innovations, SILK Research and Development Center for Ophthalmic Innovations, SILK operates under Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences/Department of Ophthalmology. The aim is to set up a comprehensive national and international co-operation network whose operations are intended to promote the birth of innovations in eye and vision research and their application for the use of patients. More information at http://www.silkresearch.fi/