Author: Brianna

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) […]

Optimizing Athletic Performance with LASIK: A Comprehensive Guide for Athletes 

LASIK for Athletes St. Louis Missouri

Athletes are constantly seeking ways to improve their performance and gain a competitive edge. Clear vision is crucial in most sports, and for many athletes, freedom from glasses or contact lenses can significantly enhance their abilities. In recent years, LASIK surgery has become a game-changer, providing athletes with improved vision and convenience. This guide aims […]

WashU Ophthalmology at ARVO 2024

The Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) is at the forefront of advancing global research aimed at unraveling the complexities of the visual system and combatting its disorders. From May 5th to May 9th, visionaries and experts congregated in Seattle, Washington, for the ARVO 2024 Annual Meeting, a pivotal event showcasing the latest […]

Recap: LASIK Continuing Education Dinner

On May 1, 2024, Washington University LASIK Surgery Center held it’s continuing education dinner at Westwood Country Club. The audience was treated to an insightful and engaging event featuring esteemed speakers, Dr. Stephen Wexler and Dr. Robi Maamari. The event was an enriching experience, filled with valuable discussions and perspectives on pertinent topics in their […]

Advancing Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Care: Insights from the 49th Annual AAPOS Meeting

The field of pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus continues to evolve, driven by dedicated professionals committed to enhancing the quality of eye care for children and adults alike. One prominent organization at the forefront of these efforts is the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS). With a mission centered on advancing care, supporting education, […]

Natalia Morales, MD and Phillip Custer, MD, FACS Present at the Annual Cogan Society Meeting

In April, Natalia Morales, MD, our talented second-year resident, presented at the Cogan Ophthalmology Historical Society Annual Meeting held at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute in Miami. Natalia’s research on the history of trachoma, a leading cause of blindness worldwide, formed the basis of her thought-provoking talk titled “The Influence of Trachoma on the Establishment of […]

Night Vision After LASIK: What You Need to Know

LASIK surgery has been a revolutionary solution for many seeking freedom from glassesand contact lenses. While it has provided clear vision for numerous individuals, there has been some discussion and concern regarding the impact of LASIK on night vision. This post aims to delve into what you should know about night vision after undergoing LASIK. […]

Dr. Mary-Grace Reeves: Making an Impact at the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s Congressional Advocacy Day

Dr. Mary Grace Reeves, an esteemed Washington University Ophthalmology Resident, recently had the remarkable opportunity of being chosen as an Advocacy Ambassador for the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s 2024 Congressional Advocacy Day and Mid-Year Forum. This prestigious position, sponsored by Women In Ophthalmology, MoSEPS, and the department, allowed Dr. Reeves to represent her colleagues and advocate […]

35th Annual Ophthalmology Spring Update

On Saturday, April 20, 2024, ophthalmologists and eye care professionals converged for the eagerly awaited 35th Annual Ophthalmology Spring Update. Here, participants delved into the most recent advancements, research findings, and discussions that are shaping the field of ophthalmology. Dr. Cecilia Lee, was the 33rd Annual Distinguished Alumnus Award Recipient and delivered a captivating presentation […]

Linking Cholesterol, NAD+ Depletion, and Age-Related Macular Degeneration

Cholesterol Accumulation Promotes Photoreceptor Senescence and Retinal Degeneration

We are thrilled to announce the publication of a groundbreaking study titled “LXR/CD38 Activation Drives Cholesterol-Induced Macrophage Senescence and Neurodegeneration via NAD+ Depletion“, authored by Ryo Terao, MD, PhD; Mitsukuni Yoshida, MD, PhD; Rajendra Apte, MD, PhD; and colleagues from the Apte Lab. In this study, our researchers unveil critical molecular mechanisms linking dysregulated cholesterol […]

Charles Pfeifer Wins the Prestigious 2024 Dr. Philip Needleman Pharmacology Award

We are thrilled to announce Charles Pfeifer as the distinguished recipient of the highly acclaimed 2024 Dr. Philip Needleman Pharmacology Award. This honor is bestowed upon a graduating student who has exhibited exceptional accomplishments in the field of Pharmacology. Founded in 1991 by Ms. Sima Needleman in tribute to her husband’s unwavering dedication to scholarship […]

LASIK and Your Career: How It Can Impact Your Professional Life

In the dynamic landscape of professional life, one’s vision plays a crucial role in daily tasks and overall productivity. For many, the decision to undergo LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) surgery isn’t solely about improving vision but can also have a significant impact on their careers. In this article, we’ll explore how LASIK can influence […]

Joseph Lin, PhD Places 2nd in Mark S. Wrighton Research Award on Aging 3MT Competition

Joseph Lin, PhD represented the ApteLab and the John F. Hardesty, MD Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences in the highly competitive 2024 Mark S. Wrighton Research Award on Aging 3MT Competition. This remarkable accomplishment highlights Joseph’s dedication to his research and his exceptional ability to communicate complex concepts efficiently. The Mark S. Wrighton Research […]

Recognizing Excellence in Age-Related Macular Degeneration Research: The Roger H. Johnson Award

Rajendra Apte, MD, PhD

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a prevalent eye disease that affects millions of individuals aged 60 and older. Understanding the pathogenesis and developing effective treatments for this condition is crucial. In honor of Dr. Roger H. Johnson, an accomplished ophthalmologist and his dedication to advancing AMD research, the Roger H. Johnson Award was established. This […]

Understanding Retinal Detachment: Insights from Dr. Rajendra S. Apte’s Recent Study

We are thrilled to share with you a remarkable article titled “Retinal Detachment: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options” co-authored by Rajendra S. Apte, MD, PhD. This enlightening study, published in the renowned journal Nature, explores the intricate details of retinal detachment, providing valuable insights into its causes, diagnosis methods, and available treatment options. In this […]

Refractive Surgery for ASD: Improving Social Behavior and Adaptive Functioning in Children with Profound Autism

We are excited to announce that Dr. Margaret Reynolds, a distinguished pediatric ophthalmologist at Washington University in St. Louis, has recently been awarded a grant from the Autism Science Foundation. This one-year grant, starting on February 1st, 2024, aims to explore the potential benefits of vision correction through refractive surgery for children with profound autism. […]

LASIK & DRY EYE: Understanding the Connection

LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) has transformed the lives of countless individuals, offering a solution for vision correction without the need for glasses or contacts. However, one common side effect that some people experience post-LASIK is dry eyes. This occurrence has led to a closer examination of the relationship between LASIK and dry eyes. In […]

The Evolution of LASIK Technology: What’s New in 2024?

LASIK, short for Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, has long been regarded as a transformative solution for vision correction. Over the years, advancements in technology have continuously refined LASIK procedures, making them more precise, safer, and capable of addressing a wider range of visual impairments. Leading the way in this field is Dr. Stephen Welxer, a […]

How can I get my eye to stop twitching?

Eyelid twitching can be so irritating! It can feel impossible to ignore. Dr. Leanne Stunkel, MD, a renowned neuro-ophthalmologist who offers expert care for complex neurological disorders as they affect the visual system discuss a common problem that many of us face: how to stop our eyes from twitching. What is eyelid twitching? At times, […]

Congratulations, Dr. Margaret Reynolds!

Dr. Margaret M. Reynolds, a renowned researcher at Washington University, has recently been awarded an internal CTRFP grant titled “Phenotype After Refractive Surgery for Autism Spectrum Disorder.” This grant aims to support innovative research projects that can translate scientific discoveries into tangible improvements in human health. The grant, administered by the Institute of Clinical and […]