We are thrilled to share that Poonam Naik, PhD, a postdoctoral associate in the laboratory of Rajendra Apte, MD, PhD, has been named a Center of Regenerative Medicine (CRM) Distinguished Postdoctoral Scholar for her groundbreaking research on Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD). This prestigious honor recognizes her innovative work on one of the leading causes of vision loss in adults.
About Naik’s Research
Dr. Naik’s research focuses on the role of immune cells, particularly macrophages, in the development of choroidal neovascularization (CNV), a condition responsible for over 80% of severe vision loss in AMD. While current treatments aim to slow the growth of abnormal blood vessels by targeting VEGF, they often require frequent injections and may not work for all patients. Dr. Naik’s research is exploring alternative therapies by targeting genes upregulated in endothelial tip cells to inhibit CNV and modulate the immune environment. Her goal is to develop more effective, longer-lasting treatments with fewer side effects.
This recognition is part of the CRM Distinguished Postdoctoral Scholars Program, which is designed to train researchers in interdisciplinary approaches to regenerative medicine. Participants, like Dr. Naik, benefit from additional training, mentoring, and opportunities to advance their research.
We congratulate Dr. Naik on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to the impact her research will have on the future of AMD treatments.