Blue Light and Longer Nights: Eye Health Tips for Fall’s Shorter Days

As the days grow shorter and nights lengthen during the fall, many of us spend more time indoors, often in front of screens. Increased screen time exposes our eyes to more blue light, which can lead to digital eye strain and discomfort. Here’s how you can protect your eye health this fall, while separating fact […]

Washington University Experts Presenting at ACADEMY 2024 Indianapolis

Several distinguished doctors from the Washington University Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences will be presenting at ACADEMY 2024 in Indianapolis, November 6-9. These experts will share their groundbreaking research and clinical insights, contributing to the advancement of optometry and vision science. Be sure to check out the speaker list below to see who will […]

New Research Uncovers the Role of Cholesterol Accumulation in Retinal Degeneration

Cholesterol Accumulation Promotes Photoreceptor Senescence and Retinal Degeneration

We’re excited to highlight a significant publication from two of our esteemed colleagues: Dr. Ryo Terao, a former postdoctoral researcher now on the faculty at the University of Tokyo, and Dr. Mitsu Yoshida, an ASAP fellow in Anesthesiology currently working in the Apte Lab. Along with their co-authors, they have just published research titled “Cholesterol […]

Is LASIK Right for College Students? A Back-to-School Vision Guide

Heading to college is a major life milestone, marking the beginning of new experiences, challenges, and responsibilities. For many students, this transition also brings a shift in how they approach their health and lifestyle choices, including vision care. If you’re tired of dealing with the hassle of glasses or contact lenses, you may be wondering […]

Back-to-School Vision Checklist: Ensuring Your Child’s Eyes Are Ready for the Classroom

As the back-to-school season approaches, parents are busy gathering supplies, organizing schedules, and preparing their children for a successful academic year. While shopping for notebooks and new clothes, it’s easy to overlook one critical aspect of your child’s readiness for school: their vision. Good vision is essential for learning and ensuring that your child’s eyes […]

Dr. Arsham Sheybani: Expert Insights on Cataract Surgery and Glaucoma

We are excited to highlight Dr. Arsham Sheybani for his recent lecture at the Kentucky Academy of Eye Physicians and Surgeons on May 10th. Dr. Sheybani presented on the complex and critical topic of “The Cataract Surgery that Caused Glaucoma.” In his lecture, Dr. Sheybani shared his extensive knowledge on how cataract surgery, despite its […]

Dr. Tychsen: Leading the Way in Refractive Surgery for Special Needs Children

We are proud to spotlight Dr. Tychsen, a distinguished member of the Washington University Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, for his recent contributions to the field of pediatric ophthalmology. On May 4th, Dr. Tychsen delivered an impactful lecture on “Refractive Surgery for Special Needs Children” at the Texas Ophthalmological Association’s 2024 Annual Meeting. His […]

WashU Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences Receives Prestigious RPB Grant for Eye Research

We are delighted to announce that the Washington University Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences has been awarded a prestigious Unrestricted Grant from Research to Prevent Blindness (RPB). This grant, amounting to $115,000 annually, will significantly bolster the department’s ongoing eye research efforts. Recognition of Excellence The Unrestricted Grant from RPB is a testament to […]

Yoshimatsu Receives Seed Grant from Brain Research Foundation

Takeshi Yoshimatsu, PhD

Dr. Takeshi Yoshimatsu Receives Brain Research Foundation Seed Grant for Groundbreaking Zebrafish Study on Visual Attention St. Louis, MO — June 6, 2024 — Takeshi Yoshimatsu,PhD, an Assistant Professor in the John F. Hardesty, MD, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis (WashU Medicine) has been awarded […]

LASIK for Seniors: Is It Safe and Effective for Older Adults? 

LASIK surgery has long been hailed as a life-changing procedure for individuals seeking freedom from glasses and contact lenses. Traditionally, it’s been more commonly associated with younger adults looking to correct their vision. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest and discussion about the safety and effectiveness of LASIK for seniors. As […]

Washington University Faculty Member to Keynote at Prestigious Ophthalmology Conference

Rajendra Apte, MD, PhD

We are excited to announce that Dr. Rajendra Apte, MD, PhD, the Paul A. Cibis Distinguished Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, will be the keynote speaker at the 14th Annual CWRU/University Hospitals Department of Ophthalmology Research Day 2024. Keynote Presentation by Dr. Rajendra Apte Dr. Apte will be delivering a keynote address titled “Novel Insights […]

Gordon Research Conference 2024: Establishing Form and Function in the Eye and Visual Brain

Unlocking the Mysteries of Vision: GRC Visual System Development Conference The 2024 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Visual System Development, themed “Establishing Form and Function in the Eye and Visual Brain,” took place from May 19 to 24, 2024. This prestigious international scientific gathering will be hosted in a remote location to foster a sense […]

LASIK for Millennials: A Trend Among Young Professionals

In recent years, the landscape of vision correction has seen a significant shift among young adults, particularly young professionals. The quest for clearer, hassle-free vision has led many in this generation to consider LASIK surgery as a solution. With the rise of career-driven individuals and an emphasis on convenience, LASIK has become a popular choice […]

Medical Student Wilson Wang and Resident Maggie Xing Publish Key Article on Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy in JAMA Ophthalmology

Medical student Wilson Wang and resident physician Maggie Xing, MD, have made significant contributions to the field of ophthalmology with their recent publication in JAMA Ophthalmology “Interventions for Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy,” co-authored with renowned expert Raj Apte, MD, PhD. Their article provides a comprehensive clinical synopsis and educational review of proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), a serious complication […]

Exploring Retinal Biomarkers in Huntington Disease: A Groundbreaking Study

Optovue OCTA image of macula with superficial retinal capillary plexus overlay.

In a significant leap forward for neurodegenerative disease research, Retina fellow Aaditya Shah, MD has published an excellent study titled, “Dark Adaptometry and Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography in Huntington Disease.” This pioneering research is among the first to indicate that retinal biomarkers may be present in patients with Huntington Disease (HD), offering a potentially transformative […]

Understanding Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

Cataracts are a common eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly as they age. Understanding what cataracts are, their causes, symptoms, and risk factors can help you take proactive steps in preserving your eye health. In this blog post, we will delve into everything you need to know about cataracts, providing you with […]

Common Myths and Misconceptions About LASIK 

LASIK surgery has been a groundbreaking solution for many seeking clearer vision, yet it’s surrounded by myths and misconceptions that sometimes deter individuals from considering this life-changing procedure. To shed light on the realities of LASIK, let’s debunk some of the most common myths and provide accurate information to help individuals make informed decisions about […]

Advancing Retinal Disease Research: Dr. Chen’s New Project on hiPSC-induced Retinal Organoids

Shiming Chen, PhD

We’re thrilled to announce that Dr. Shiming Chen has been awarded a Seed grant from the Center of Regenerative Medicine for her groundbreaking project titled “hiPSC-induced retinal organoids modeling CRX-linked retinopathies.” This pioneering research aims to establish three-dimensional retinal organoids—essentially human retinas in a dish—to model inherited retinal diseases (IRDs) linked to the cone-rod-homeobox (CRX) […]