UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN W.K. KELLOGG EYE CENTER
ANNUAL REPORT
2019
University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center Annual Report 2019
2
Table of Contents 1
17
10
The Chair’s Perspective
Advancing Eye Care for Patients and Populations 2
Multidisciplinary Patient Care
6
Retinal Dystrophy Patient Support Session
7
Preventing Falls
9
Clinical Research Update
10 Patient Safety Award 11 Mobile Vision Screening Expands in Michigan 12 A Comprehensive Approach to Low Vision 18 Tele-Ophthalmology Update
31
Scientific and Research Advances from the Bench to the Bedside 5
Revolutionary Treatment for Thyroid Eye Disease
8
Reprogramming Photoreceptors
28 New Approach to Stroke Treatment 29 Photoacoustic Imaging for AMD 30 Precision Medicine for Nanophthalmos
37
Philanthropy and Development 34 Three Professorships Established 36 Supporting Early-Stage Vision Research 37 Cheers for Charity 38 Mickey Shapiro Lobby Kellogg Spotlights 15 Resident Highlights
32 AMD Research Award
23 Dean’s Award
33 Improving Tumor Diagnosis
24 Eversight Grant Awarded
Education at Home and Abroad
24 Donald Puro, M.D., Ph.D., Elected to AAAS
6
A New Residency Model
14 Improving Equity in Ophthalmology
21 New World Medical Award
20 Celebrating International Partnerships
23 Strengthening Research Capacity in India
22 Ethiopian Residency Program Graduates First Class
25 Improving Treatment for Optic Neuritis
23 Strengthening Research Capacity in India
26 Mining Big Data
41 Graduating Residents and Fellows
27 Honorary Award Lectures 31 K12 Grants Awarded 32 Alumni Highlights 35 Heed-Gutman Award 36 Remembering Terry Bergstrom, M.D. 39 New Faculty 40 Anthony Adamis, M.D. 42 Faculty Honors and Recognition
Front cover clockwise from top: Senait Fesseha, M.D., J.D., Emily Schehlein, M.D., Yannis Paulus, M.D., F.A.C.S., Bella Guzzardo, patient, PaulaAnne Newman-Casey, M.D., M.S.
At the University of Michigan W.K. Kellogg Eye Center, faculty, staff, students and trainees collaborate to improve patients' lives and innovate for the future of vision care.
The Chair’s Perspective Dear Friends and Colleagues, It is always a joy to highlight the people, programs and progress of the Kellogg Eye Center in our annual report. As we organized this year’s articles — which represent a sampling of our work throughout the year — several themes emerged: At Kellogg, there’s no tunnel vision in visual science Every day, our clinicians and scientists advance the field of ophthalmology. At the same time, we’re discovering pathways to improve patient health on a broader scale. This year’s report highlights several examples: repurposing a diabetic retinopathy treatment into a potentially life-saving stroke rescue drug; using an unsuccessful cancer drug to dramatically improve the treatment of thyroid eye disease; applying insights from prostate cancer imaging and diagnostics to future ophthalmic uses; and identifying a link between visual impairment and
Our colleagues at Emory University and the VA developed
a telemedicine intervention to improve access to eye care for veterans. Kellogg investigators are now bringing the program to veterans in Michigan and applying the model to glaucoma screening for high-risk individuals in underserved communities in the region. At Kellogg, we go all in Our patient’s story in this year’s report demonstrates what’s possible when many ophthalmic subspecialties work together to see one patient through a lifetime of complex vision challenges. Other stories highlight our teams working to improve vision health in community settings, including in schools and underserved areas of Michigan and in countries as far off as Ethiopia and India.
The accomplishments highlighted in these pages illustrate
the ultimate team effort. They showcase the ingenuity and drive of our faculty, staff, trainees and alumni, the dedication and generosity of our donor partners, and the engagement and
lower rates of mammography screening.
perseverance of the patients we are so honored to serve. Thank
At Kellogg, we celebrate crossing one finish line by
member of the Kellogg family for another year of remarkable
starting another race
you for reading our annual report. We are grateful to every progress.
Kellogg brought together a consortium of ophthalmology departments to compile a database of comprehensive medical (in addition to eye care) information from hundreds of thousands of eye patients. This complements the tens of millions of patients whose eye care information has been collected by the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s IRIS Registry. Researchers are already mining these big-data powerhouses, using machine learning and other algorithms,
Paul P. Lee, M.D., J.D. F. Bruce Fralick Professor and Chair, Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Director, W. K. Kellogg Eye Center
to identify new diagnostic markers and treatment targets. 1
Multidisciplinary Care to Restore Vision: One Patient's Nearly 50 Year Journey Sometimes, life throws a curve ball. Strangely, many of the curve balls in Todd Osment’s life have hit him in the left eye.
“I was nine years old the first time the eye was
injured,” says Osment, now 56. “A classmate shot a pencil at me with a rubber band.” That was also the first time Osment made the 45-mile trip from his home in Monroe, Michigan, to the Kellogg Eye Center where a surgeon was able to save the eye, but not its vision. This is the story of how, 47 years later, he is able to see in that eye.
2
nt
SIGHT IS A GIFT, AND I WILL BE FOREVER GRATEFUL TO THE TEAM AT KELLOGG
“
—T od d
“ O
e sm
FOR SAVING MINE. MY DAUGHTER WAS INVOLVED IN CHEERLEADING, SPORTS AND MUSIC IN SCHOOL. THANKS TO MY KELLOGG DOCTORS, I NEVER MISSED AN EVENT.
3
Patient Todd Osment with part of his Kellogg care team. Left to right: Mark W. Johnson, M.D., David N. Zacks, M.D., Ph.D., Helios T. Leung, O.D., Ph.D.
After his injury Osment would rely solely on his right eye
“Both Mr. Osment’s transplant and a follow-up procedure
for the next 20 years. As he got older, he became more aware
to remove residual membranes were very successful,” Dr.
of images in his left eye and — after surgery to implant an
Shtein says. “He healed well, and we were able to refer him
intraocular lens — he saw slightly better.
for a special contact lens to further improve his vision.”
In 2012, Osment would suffer yet another
injury to his left eye. While clearing tree branches in his yard after a storm, a branch struck Osment under the safety glasses he was wearing, rupturing his left globe.
Doctors at the hospital near his home in
Adrian, Michigan, determined that the injury
ONE PATIENT’S REMARKABLE STORY ILLUSTRATES THE BENEFITS OF SEEKING TREATMENT AT AN INSTITUTION THAT’S READY FOR ANYTHING.
Leung, O.D., a specialist in fitting contact lenses for irregular and post-surgical corneas, prescribed a lens that restored Osment’s vision to 20/20. In fall 2017, Osment developed a serious infection inside the eye called
was too severe to be managed there. Arrangements were made
endophthalmitis and was evaluated by Kellogg's retina service.
for a Kellogg surgical team to perform an emergency procedure
“Endophthalmitis is a painful condition that compromises
to reconstruct the globe. After his eye healed, Maria Woodward,
vision and can cost a patient both sight and the eye if not treated
M.D., M.S., a corneal specialist who has helped care for Osment
promptly,” says retinal specialist Thérèse Sassalos, M.D.
at Kellogg, performed a cornea transplant.
Sassalos and colleagues Mark
For the first time since childhood,
Johnson, M.D., and David Zacks, M.D.,
Osment had reliable vision in his left eye.
Ph.D., monitored Osment every day until
Yet another curve ball was coming. In
the infection was resolved. They used
2014, he began to experience redness and
ultrasound to examine the inflammation
pain in the eye. Due to his multiple traumas
in the back of the eye, and performed
and the development of glaucoma,
retinal injections to remove fluid for
“it appeared that the corneal transplant
analysis and administer antibiotics.
was slowly rejecting,” says Kellogg
Today, Todd Osment enjoys excellent health and vision
glaucoma specialist Paula Anne Newman-Casey, M.D., M.S.,
in both eyes. He credits his Kellogg physicians, but they
who, along with Joshua Stein, M.D., M.S., was treating his
credit him. “Through each challenge, he remained engaged
glaucoma.
in his care, which is impressive,” says Dr. Woodward.
Despite an aggressive regimen of both steroid drops and
4
Kellogg optometrist Helios Tin-Chung
“At every step he was diligent, asked great questions,
oral steroids, the team was unable to rescue the graft. A second
and did everything we asked of him,” adds Dr. Sassalos.
transplant was performed by cornea specialist Roni Shtein,
“It’s a privilege to care for someone so involved and so
M.D., M.S.
appreciative.”
A Revolutionary Treatment for Thyroid Eye Disease Physicians have long searched for a more effective treatment for Graves’ disease, an autoimmune disorder that leads the thyroid gland to produce more hormones than it should. About half of patients with Graves’ disease also develop thyroidassociated ophthalmopathy, or thyroid eye disease. In that condition, patients frequently experience symptoms such as eye bulging (proptosis), eyelid swelling, constant stare, pain and double vision. They can even go blind. Traditionally, doctors have turned to oral steroids to reduce inflammation around the eye and artificial tears to relieve dryness. Surgery isn’t usually an option until the disease becomes inactive. Even then, the procedure is costly, complex and not guaranteed to fully restore vision or appearance. Now a highly anticipated drug could change the treatment paradigm. The drug, teprotumumab, is a monoclonal antibody first developed to treat cancer. It proved an ineffective cancer therapy, but Terry J. Smith, M.D., saw its potential to interrupt
teprotumumab to ocular patient care. Dr. Smith, who directs the national Graves’ Disease and Thyroid Foundation, is a professor of ophthalmology at Kellogg — the only endocrinologist in the U.S. with a full-time primary faculty appointment at an academic eye center. Phase 2 and phase 3 clinical trials, directed with co-principal investigator Raymond Douglas, M.D., Ph.D., a Graves’ disease specialist, oculoplastic surgeon, and
M.D
“
—T er ry
science research laid the groundwork for translating
t h, mi S .
J
.
“
the development of Graves’ disease. Dr. Smith’s basic
FOR THE FIRST TIME, WE SEEM TO HAVE A MEDICAL THERAPY THAT OUTPERFORMS CURRENTLY
past Kellogg faculty member, yielded dramatic results. Most trial participants who received intravenous teprotumumab had reduced proptosis,
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS.
Top: Terry J. Smith, M.D., and Nina Tate, B.S., C.O.A., meet with patient Janet Rost. Middle photo: Dr. Smith and Roshini S. Fernando, M.S. Bottom: Dr. Smith with patient Sarah Newland.
eye pain, double vision and swelling. Many experienced positive results within weeks. The results often lasted for a year or more, with limited, manageable side effects. After fast-tracking its review, a FDA Advisory Panel recently voted unanimously to recommend approval of teprotumumab with a vote of 12-0 in favor of this breakthrough therapy. “For the first time, we seem to have a medical therapy that outperforms currently available treatments,” says Dr. Smith. “Teprotumumab may make it possible to treat the disease earlier, reducing inflammation around the eyes and lessening the severity of other symptoms.” 5
Kellogg Initiates Joint Internship and Residency Program Michigan Medicine and the Kellogg Eye Center are implementing changes to the established post-graduate calendar for future ophthalmologists. The traditional way… Before graduating medical school, students apply for and match with a residency program in their desired specialty, such as a three-year ophthalmology residency. During the first postgraduate year or PGY1, a newly minted doctor completes a one-year internship in a different medical specialty or combination of specialties before formal residency begins. Internships and residencies are often completed at different institutions.
PGY1 Omar Moinuddin, M.D., Bernadete Ayres, M.D., Bradford Tannen, M.D., J.D., M.B.A., and patient Andrew McKeon. M.D., J.D., M.B.A. “While building a ‘provider skill set’ at a top medical school, they’re also getting a jump start on the fundamentals of practicing ophthalmology, including patient
As of July 2019…
work-ups, basic diagnostics and even an introduction to the
Aspiring ophthalmologists can complete a PGY-1 internship
operating room.”
at Michigan Medicine that includes three one-month blocks
“By covering the basics sooner, they’re ready to hit the
of ophthalmology training interspersed among nine months
ground running when their ophthalmology residency begins,”
of training in internal medicine.
adds professor Shahzad Mian, M.D. “It also frees up more
The change, approved by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, will soon become the standard
time at the end of residency for more focused, tailored studies and even research.” Dr. Tannen assumed responsibilities as Kellogg’s residency
for post-graduate training in ophthalmology. “This is an exciting evolution in how ophthalmologists are trained,” says clinical associate professor Bradford Tannen,
program director in 2019, succeeding Dr. Mian, who had served in the position since 2004.
Kellogg Hosts Conference for Retinal Dystrophy Patients, Caregivers
6
On Oct. 19, 2019, Kellogg, with partial
a Kellogg genetic counselor and director
support from the Foundation Fighting
of the event. “We also reviewed current
Blindness and the Milton M. Ratner Founda-
treatment options, including clinical trials of
tion, hosted a one-day informational and
experimental gene and stem cell therapies.”
inspirational forum for patients living with
inherited retinal diseases.
a retinal dystrophy. Specialists in clinical
psychology, occupational therapy and low
The event, Living with a Retinal Dystro-
A second session covered living with
phy — Tools to Help You Thrive, drew more
vision, as well as representatives from the
than 100 people — about 70 patients and
local school district and Leader Dogs for the
30 family members or caregivers — from
Blind chapter shared ideas and resources.
Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois.
Branham. “But events like this help patients
One session focused on clinical issues.
“We can’t change the diagnosis,” says
“We provided education on the various
and caregivers cope with these challenging
inherited retinal syndromes and their genetic
diseases by learning from experts and from
origins,” says Kari Branham, M.S., C.G.C.,
each other.”
Sue Hackman from Leader Dogs for the Blind speaks during the forum.
—D av id
M
“ ch us
,
.P.H. ., M
AVOIDING INJURY AND MAINTAINING
“
A Look at Vision Impairment and Age-Related Risk of Falls
.D Ph
INDEPENDENCE BECOME MAJOR
It’s estimated that 29 million seniors fall every year, resulting
HEALTH PRIORITIES AS WE AGE.
in 7 million injuries, 2.8 million emergency department visits,
THE GOAL IS TO GIVE DOCTORS AND
800,000 hospitalizations and 27,000 deaths.
Several factors are linked with fall risk, including balance
PATIENTS AN ADDITIONAL EDGE IN
and cognitive impairment. Anecdotally, it is known that visual
SUPPORTING HEALTHY AGING.
problems play a part too, yet there is much to learn about the interplay between vision and the physical and cognitive issues that place older adults at greater risk of falling.
A new study led by David Musch, Ph.D., M.P.H., and
Sayoko Moroi, M.D., Ph.D., attempts to narrow this knowledge gap. Dr. Musch is a professor of ophthalmology and visual sciences at Kellogg and of epidemiology in the U-M School
Nation or SWAN) with information gathered from performing
of Public Health. Dr. Moroi is a recent Kellogg active emeritus
comprehensive vision examinations on 255 Michigan SWAN
professor and the new chair of the Department of Ophthalmol-
participants. The project is supported by an NIH Research
ogy and Visual Science at The Ohio State University Wexner
Grant for Secondary Analysis (R21), which provides support
Medical Center.
for studies that use existing database resources.
“We hypothesize that specific vision measures, such as
“Avoiding injury and maintaining independence become
acuity and contrast sensitivity, are associated with physical
major health priorities as we age,” says Dr. Musch. “We want
function, balance, cognition and, ultimately, falls,” says Dr.
to help doctors recognize which factors are contributing to
Musch. “We hope our analysis will provide a more detailed
their older patients’ cognitive troubles and falls — including
map of how all of those age-related risk factors interact.”
vision problems that may be preventable or treatable. The goal
is to give doctors and patients an additional edge in supporting
Their approach combines data from an ongoing national
longitudinal study (the Study of Women’s Health Across the
healthy aging.”
Members of the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation, or SWAN, include Michelle Hood, M.S., David Musch, Ph.D., M.P.H., Brenda Gillespie, Ph.D., Sayoko Moroi, M.D., Ph.D., Carrie Karvonen-Gutierrez, Ph.D. 7
Cagri Besirli, M.D., Ph.D., with Mercy Pawar, a research lab technician in the Besirli Lab.
Saving Sight by Reprogramming the Metabolism of Photoreceptors A defining characteristic of retinal degenerative diseases, such
Dr. Besirli hypothesizes that by modifying two genes that drive
as age-related macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa,
aerobic glycolysis, PR cells can be reprogrammed to survive
is damage to photoreceptor (PR) cells in the retina. PR cells
longer. The first, HK2, is believed to act as an intracellular
sense light and trigger signals to the brain to receive an image.
control switch, linking energy needs and metabolism to cell
As PR cells deteriorate, images grow blurry or distorted, and
dysfunction and death. The second, PKM2, serves as a
eventually, disappear entirely.
gatekeeper of energy activity within the cell, shifting glucose
Currently, no treatments exist to reverse or repair PR damage. A team led by Cagri G. Besirli, M.D., Ph.D., Skillman
Using several approaches, Dr. Besirli plans to manipulate HK and PKM function, effectively reprogramming the
Career Development Professor of Pediatric Ophthalmology
metabolism of PR cells. This would improve their ability
and an assistant professor of ophthalmology and visual sciences,
to make energy efficiently, and slow PR cell death during
believes that boosting the metabolism of PR cells may improve
energy crises.
their survival. A critical component of PR cell metabolism is aerobic
8
to generate building blocks for the cell or to produce energy.
Studies made possible by this NEI (NIH) R0-1 grant will lay the foundation for continued exploration of connections
glycolysis, a specialized process of efficiently using energy
between metabolism and PR survival during retinal stress,
stored in glucose molecules in cells with high metabolic needs.
and may lead to new treatment targets for retinal diseases.
The Kellogg Clinical Research Center (KCRC) continues to flourish, supporting a portfolio of clinical trials that is expanding in both volume and variety.
“Our goal is to make the clinical research process easier
for both the investigators who oversee studies and the patients who so generously participate in them,” says KCRC’s Medical Director, associate professor Grant Comer, M.D., M.S.
More than 60 clinical studies are currently managed
through the KCRC, including investigator- and sponsor-initiated trials overseen by 20 different Kellogg faculty members. Support is also provided for projects at the early stage of trial design,
Grant Comer, M.D., M.S., and Lindsay Godsey, M.S., C.O.A., work with Bella Guzzardo, a patient participating in one of the ongoing studies.
“
“
Clinical Research Update
OUR GOAL IS TO MAKE THE CLINICAL RESEARCH PROCESS EASIER FOR BOTH THE INVESTIGATORS WHO OVERSEE STUDIES AND THE PATIENTS WHO SO GENEROUSLY PARTICIPATE IN THEM. — Grant Comer, M.D., M.S.
and for studies originating elsewhere in Michigan Medicine that include an ophthalmic component.
Research 7 Coordinators
51
clinical research studies
7 Investigator initiated 44 Sponsor initiated
11
full-time research staff
Compliance 1 Specialist Finance 1 Specialist Research 1 Technician Research 1 Imager 9
Kellogg Safety Committee team members include, from left to right in the top row, Davonn Whitcomb, Nadine VanWassehnova, Erin Manno, Stephen Armenti, M.D., Ph.D., Alan Sugar, M.D., M.S., Christine Nelson, M.D., Philip Lieu, M.D. Bottom Row: Beth Hansemann, Jennifer Weizer, M.D., Roni Shtein, M.D., M.S., and Carol George.
Award-Winning Safety in Our Retina Clinics In October, the Kellogg Eye Center retina clinics were the first ambulatory clinics recognized by Michigan Medicine with the 365 Days of Safety award. While so many of our clinics merit this award, Michigan Medicine recognized the special team commitment in a very busy clinical environment. As its name implies, the award acknowledges patient care units that avoid patient harm or care-acquired conditions for at least 365 consecutive days. The retina clinic’s record far exceeds this milestone. “It’s an especially significant achievement given our clinic volume,” says retina specialist and assistant professor Philip Lieu, M.D. “We administer more than 12,000 injections in our clinics each year.” “A major team effort goes into a safety record like this,” says professor Jennifer Weizer, M.D. Both Drs. Lieu and Weizer, who chairs Kellogg’s Safety Committee, were part of a dedicated group that systematically reviewed and refined the retina injection protocol. They analyzed every point where a potential error could occur, even if none ever had. Because communication is critical to avoiding errors, daily team huddles have been standard for many years. Dr. Lieu says, “All of these efforts show that when it comes to safety, we don’t take anything for granted.” 10
365 12,000
Days of Safety award. Injections in our
clinics each year.
“A major team effort goes into a safety record like this” —Jennifer Weizer, M.D.
AN INTERDISCIPLINARY TEAM OF NURSE
“
— Cour tney De we y, O. D
“ .
PRACTITIONERS, PHYSICIANS, CLINICAL
SOCIAL WORKERS, MEDICAL ASSISTANTS AND A CARE COORDINATOR ON-SITE
MAKES SURE KIDS KEEP APPOINTMENTS AND SCHEDULE FOLLOW-UP CARE.
Kelley Lathrop, RAHS ancillary care coordinator, with Courtney Dewey, O.D., and Adam Burgess, RAHS mobile unit driver.
Mobile Vision Screening Piloted in Ypsilanti Expands to Flint Good vision is essential to healthy childhood development and success in school. The state of Michigan administers no-charge basic vision screening to children through school-based health centers and local health departments. But when a screening flags a child as needing eyeglasses or an eye examination to address a potential concern, several factors can make timely, accessible follow-up care a challenge.
Dr. Dewey examining a student inside the mobile unit.
Working with Michigan Medicine’s Regional Alliance for Healthy Schools (RAHS), a team led by Kellogg optometrist Courtney Dewey, O.D., is piloting two models for delivering
in early 2019, this one equipped and staffed to provide both
no-cost follow-up care: bringing students to services, and
eye and dental care.
bringing services to students. In the nearby community of Ypsilanti, students are trans-
“It’s been a learning process for us,” says Dr. Dewey. “RAHS first tried providing vouchers for free eye examinations.
ported from area schools to a health center run by RAHS at
But parents can’t always arrange for transportation or time off
Ypsilanti Community High School. There, Kellogg faculty and
from work, and follow-through rates were low. Transporting
staff conduct basic screenings, eye examinations and eyeglass
students to and from school-based health centers has been an
fittings. RAHS also has a mobile unit equipped to offer the
improvement, and so far, it looks like the mobile unit allows
same services. Students needing new or replacement glasses
us to see even more patients.”
can choose from a good selection of eyeglass frames. Orders
While other communities utilize mobile care units,
are filled at the Kellogg Eye Center, and a Kellogg optician
Dr. Dewey notes that coordinating the unit with school-based
returns to the patient’s school to deliver and adjust the glasses.
health centers makes Kellogg’s approach unique. “An interdis-
When advanced follow-up care is called for, clinicians facilitate
ciplinary team of nurse practitioners, physicians, clinical social
appointments with ophthalmologists at one of Kellogg’s clinical
workers, medical assistants and a care coordinator on-site
locations.
makes sure kids keep appointments and schedule follow-up
Building on their success, another RAHS mobile clinic began visiting school-based health centers in Flint, Michigan,
care,” she explains. “So far that added attention seems to be making a big difference.” 11
D.
“
ry D ay ,O .
“
— Sher
EVERY PATIENT IS UNIQUE,
Donna M. Wicker, O.D., F.A.A.O., Joshua Ehrlich, M.D., M.P.H., Russ Ellis, C.O.T.A., Ashley Howson, M.S., O.T.R./L., Sherry H. Day, O.D., F.A.A.O.
A Comprehensive Approach to Low Vision
AND WE ARE DEDICATED TO HELPING
THEM PERFORM THEIR SPECIFIC ACTIVITIES WITH GREATER INDEPENDENCE.
More than 250 million people worldwide live with low vision or blindness. Low vision is defined as moderate to severe vision impairment with visual acuity worse than 20/60 that cannot be
degrees, seniors who want to continue making art or music,
corrected with medical treatment, surgery or glasses. Most have
and kids who need help reading or seeing the blackboard.
some useful sight, but everyday actions like reading, cooking,
Their goals become our goals.”
recognizing faces or differentiating color can be challenging. Kellogg takes a multidisciplinary approach to low vision,
After a thorough evaluation, patients spend time in the clinic’s Low Vision Technology Center, where they can try out
combining individualized care, novel research, and training
the latest devices, technologies and techniques, including
for providers from around the world (see page 20).
magnifiers, lighting options, adaptive TVs, audio smartwatches, timers, and medical devices.
One-on-One Strategies and Support At Kellogg’s Low Vision and Visual Rehabilitation Service,
Howson, M.S., O.T.R./L., in the Independent Living Skills
specialists in optometry, ophthalmology, occupational therapy,
Center, to use low vision-adapted lighting, appliances and
social work and more collaborate to design personalized plans
cookware. “They learn and practice skills to help stay safe
to maximize sight and independence for people with low vision.
and autonomous in their own homes,” she explains. Michigan
“Every patient is unique, and we are dedicated to helping
12
Patients also meet with occupational therapist Ashley
Medicine’s certified orientation and mobility specialist, Russ
them perform their specific activities with greater indepen-
Ellis, C.O.T.A., also works with patients in locations around
dence,” say program co-directors Sherry Day, O.D., and
Ann Arbor, helping them learn to navigate challenges like curbs,
Donna Wicker, O.D. “We work with adults pursuing law
steps and public transportation.
Olivia Walch, Ph.D., demonstrating the new app. Kwoon Wong, Ph.D., showing the capabilities of the app on a tablet device.
A New App for Low Vision
In response, Dr. Ehrlich is undertaking several large-scale
University of Michigan researchers in ophthalmology, math-
projects to improve the measurement of visual function. One
ematics and neurology, led by Kellogg associate professor
of these, funded by the National Eye Institute, aims to develop
Kwoon Wong, Ph.D., are making everyday tasks like reading
a survey instrument that will measure functioning among those
labels, price tags and menus easier for people with low vision.
with severe peripheral vision loss, a patient population for
which there are few evidence-based vision rehabilitation options.
They have developed the Android mobile app LVFree
Vision Enhancer, which can now be downloaded for free from
In another project funded by the National Institute on Aging,
the Google Play store.
Dr. Ehrlich, along with an optometrist and a team of survey
researchers, developed a series of tablet-based vision measures
LVFree uses mathematical algorithms to process in real time
the scene captured by the Android device’s camera, and shows
that can be administered in-home by a trained facilitator.
the user a digitally enhanced version that is easier to see. It can
“Data from a pilot study with 400 participants shows that these
be used with a smartphone or tablet alone, or with a smartphone
measures perform well. When implemented on a large-scale,
mounted on a low-cost virtual reality headset.
we anticipate that they will provide much-needed data on the
vision health of the U.S. population,” he says.
A few similar devices are commercially available. But
they are often difficult to use and, at costs exceeding $1,000,
unaffordable for many.
vision within one of the nation’s most robust studies of aging
and disability.
To combat that, Dr. Wong says, “We focused on the most
In fact, these measures will soon to be used to track
critical functions for low vision users — magnification, bright-
ness enhancement and reverse contrast.”
conducted through the U-M Institute for Social Research,
follows a nationally representative group of more than 8,500
LVFree was written by research fellow Olivia Walch, Ph.D.,
The National Health and Aging Trends Study (NHATS),
and tested by Kellogg patients, who gave valuable feedback.
adults 65 and older. The study focuses on trends in late-life
This project was funded in part by the Promobilia Foundation
disability in areas such as cognitive impairment and falls.
in Sweden.
The tablet-based vision tests will become part of the annual NHATS protocol starting in early 2020, and will provide
Low Vision Research
much-needed data on the vision health of older U.S. adults
Vision impairments make daily living more difficult. Yet
and on the role of vision in late-life disability.
researchers don’t have all of the tools to specifically measure
vision-related disability.
Joshua Stein, M.D., M.S., is another Kellogg faculty member
“We use eye charts to assess visual acuity, and surveys
involved in low vision research. Dr. Stein’s work, funded in
to determine if a person can read a label or recognize someone
part by the Lighthouse Guild, focuses on improving access
across the street,” says Kellogg health services researcher
to eye care for disadvantaged and at-risk populations.
Glaucoma specialist and health services researcher
Joshua Ehrlich, M.D., M.P.H. “But neither paints a complete picture of how individuals with low vision are getting by in their daily lives.” 13
Some of the program's participants and mentors: Shahzad I. Mian, M.D., Angela R. Elam, M.D., Oluyemi Olumolade, Keith D. Carter, M.D., F.A.C.S., Tochukwu Ndukwe, Anjali Shah, M.D.
Improving Equity in Ophthalmology Kellogg has long supported diversity, equity and inclusion
The summer ends with students presenting their research
(DEI) initiatives to address the under-representation of minority
at a local meeting such as Kellogg's DEI grand rounds, or a
populations in ophthalmic care delivery, research participation
national forum such as the Rabb-Venable Excellence in Research
and provider education.
event held during the annual convention of the National
Medical Association.
The Health Equity Ophthalmology Summer Program
provides students between their first and second years of medical
Clinical assistant professor and medical student clerkship director Ariane Kaplan, M.D., directs the program. “We’ve designed the experience to help students build their resumes with the fundamentals of both ophthalmology and research,” she explains, “which will be beneficial regardless of what direction their careers ultimately head.”
Students work with a mentor on a DEI-related research
project and shadow Kellogg faculty members in the clinic and the operating room. Research projects have included examining disparities in diabetic retinopathy treatment based on race, ethnicity and income, and surveying the eye care resources and care delivery options available to Michigan’s Native American population.
14
n, pla a K
M.D
“
—A r ia ne
mology and with hands-on experience in health equity research.
.
“
school with an introduction to medical and surgical ophthal-
WE’VE DESIGNED THE EXPERIENCE TO
HELP STUDENTS BUILD THEIR RESUMES WITH THE FUNDAMENTALS OF BOTH OPHTHALMOLOGY AND RESEARCH.
New Research Impacts How Surgeons Around The World Approach Glaucoma Emily Schehlein, M.D., a second-year resident
at Kellogg, is one of the driving forces behind new research that may impact how eye surgeons around the world approach glaucoma and cataract care. She is one of the lead authors of a five-year study comparing rates of newly developed glaucoma, visual outcomes and complications in eyes with and without pseudoexfoliation (PEX) undergoing cataract surgery. PEX is an age-related eye condition characterized by the deposition of material, most prominently on the lens surface and border of the pupil. It is associated with the development of glaucoma. The first large-scale, long-term prospective study of its kind, the work was conducted and led by colleagues at India’s Aravind Eye Care System, the world’s largest eye care system. Approximately 1,000 eyes with PEX and 500 without were randomized to different cataract removal procedures and lens implants.
Importantly, the percentage of patients with newly diagnosed glaucoma was four times higher in the PEX group (7.4 percent) than in the control group (1.8 percent). This reinforces the importance of long-term monitoring of these eyes. “This part of my Kellogg residency was incredibly fulfilling,” Schehlein says. “My Aravind colleagues were so welcoming, and it was a privilege to work side by side with them and see how ophthalmology is practiced in another country. But what made this project so exciting was the potential, as a resident, to be part of changing how we approach cataract surgery in the future.” In 2019 Dr. Schehlein was honored with the American Glaucoma Society’s Bernard Schwartz Memorial Award, the Michigan Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons’ Resident Research Award and the U-M Howard Resident Prize for Glaucoma Excellence. 15
Resident Working With Underserved Populations and Mentoring Medical Students Philip Garza, M.D., M.Sc., a third-year resident,
is making the most of his Kellogg experience, combining his interests in clinical research, working with underserved populations and mentoring medical students. He’s also playing a central role in two “firsts” for one of Kellogg’s flagship international partnerships. In 2015, the Kellogg Eye Center for International Ophthalmology began a collaboration with St. Paul's Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Since then, more and more Kellogg faculty have traveled to the capital city to collaborate with their Ethiopian colleagues. While the partnership has focused on clinical and educational goals, it is now expanding to include research. Dr. Garza is a contributing author on one of the first research projects, a study of awareness and attitudes about glaucoma. 16
The study is nearing publication. Garza and a Kellogg/SPHMMC team set out to describe perceptions of glaucoma and its medical and surgical treatments among patients in Addis Ababa. “To our knowledge, this is the first survey of glaucoma attitudes and knowledge to be conducted in Addis,” he explains. “Our study will help inform future public health interventions aimed at increasing awareness of glaucoma in the city,” which is home to more than three million ethnically diverse residents. Dr. Garza was also the first Kellogg resident to travel to Ethiopia. “The trip was a tremendous opportunity to broaden my horizons as a researcher, to interact with collaborators in Ethiopia, and to gain hands-on teaching and mentoring experience with the U-M medical student who performed data collection,” he says.
Big Data to Transform Understanding in Patient Care Annie Wu, M.D., a second-year resident, knows
the power of big data to transform understanding. She chose Kellogg for residency in part to work with and learn from associate professor Joshua Stein, M.D. Drs. Stein and Wu have leveraged large electronic health record (EHR) databases to answer two intriguing questions with implications far beyond ophthalmology. Does vision impairment influence whether women get mammograms? Screening mammography has been shown to save lives by detecting breast cancer early. However, it is more challenging for people with physical disabilities to access preventive services such as cancer screenings. Dr. Wu set to find out to what degree vision impairment might be preventing women from undergoing mammography. Mining thousands of EHRs, Dr. Wu’s analysis demonstrated that women with partial vision loss
were significantly less likely to undergo screening mammography. Do commonly prescribed medications impact glaucoma risk? Dr. Wu also aggregated and reviewed data from several of Dr. Stein’s previous studies looking for connections — helpful or harmful — between drugs commonly prescribed to regulate blood sugar or lower cholesterol and the risk of glaucoma or glaucoma progression. Her review revealed several associations that warrant more study. Some medications, including systemic corticosteroids, are linked to increased risk, while others, like metformin and statins, appear to have a protective effect. “Big data helps us see relationships like these that we never considered before,” Dr. Wu says. “As a resident, it’s exciting to be part of eye research that may eventually help primary care doctors care for their patients.” 17
Routine eye examinations are vital to prevent vision loss from common, treatable eye diseases. But some people, notably seniors and the economically disadvantaged, are less likely to
.
“
an - Ca se ewm
— Paula Anne N
M.S
M y,
“
Tele-Ophthalmology Brings Care to Medically Underserved Michiganders
, .D.
WE’RE EXCITED TO SEE IF WE CAN
IMPROVE OUTCOMES FOR AT-RISK INDIVIDUALS IN OUR AREA AND
CREATE A ROADMAP FOR EXPANSION TO OTHER COMMUNITIES.
seek eye care, for many reasons including poor access to reliable transportation and a lack of local services. A new care delivery model called Technology-based Eye Care Services (TECS) helps patients overcome these barriers. After a highly successful pilot in and around Atlanta, Georgia, the tele-ophthalmology platform is expanding into Michigan.
Maria Woodward, M.D., M.S.,
How TECS Works
Assistant professor, co-directs Kellogg’s
A trained ophthalmic technician is stationed in a primary care
eHealth programs and serves as the site
clinic away from the main hospital. The technician follows a
director for TECS at the Ann Arbor VA.
detailed protocol to take measurements of the patient’s eyes,
and patients are fit for eyeglasses. The information collected in
TECS success story unfold,” says Dr.
the exam is electronically transmitted to an eye provider at the
Woodward. “We could see it would be
main hospital, who interprets the data remotely. Patients with
a great tool to better serve our Michigan
abnormal findings are scheduled for follow-up care at the main
veterans. The Ann Arbor clinic location
“It’s been exciting to watch the
hospital’s eye clinic, and help is available to get patients to
is up and running, and we’re expanding to other
these appointments.
medically underserved parts of the state.” April Maa, M.D., TECS clinical director, is an associate professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at Emory University School of Medicine and also an adjunct associate professor of research at Kellogg. Dr. Maa led the team that, in 2015, created TECS in
Expanding Glaucoma Screening With TECS The TECS approach may also help expand access to specialty screening for high-risk populations. Kellogg glaucoma specialist and co-director of the Kellogg Center for eHealth, Paula Anne Newman-Casey, M.D., M.S., is leading a pilot program funded by a grant from the Centers
partnership with five primary care clinics associated with the Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center. In the first 13 months of TECS operation, nearly 2,700 patients received eye care. Six quality and satisfaction metrics were recorded, and the results were impressive. “TECS was shown to be a win-win for providers and patients,” Dr. Maa says. TECS in Michigan With support from the VA Office of Rural Health, TECS now provides eye care to veterans at 20 sites in seven states. Eight more VA hospital hubs are slated to launch TECS in 2020, including the Ann Arbor VA Health System. PaulaAnne Newman-Casey, M.D., M.S., and patient Victor Ajoyi. 18
Dr. Newman-Casey and David Musch, Ph.D., meet with community clinic leaders to discuss the CDC-funded SIGHT research program.
for Disease Control and Prevention to screen individuals at
Telemedicine (SIGHT). Technicians will perform screenings in
increased risk of primary open-angle glaucoma. Although just
the community clinics and transmit the data to an ophthalmolo-
2 percent of the U.S. population has this condition, it’s still a
gist at Kellogg for interpretation. Follow-up appointments and
top cause of irreversible blindness, particularly among African
transportation will be coordinated for patients as needed.
Americans and low income individuals.
screening with low-cost glasses and includes access to education
It will be the first time the fundamentals of TECS will be
The pilot program incentivizes participation in glaucoma
applied to a population other than veterans.
and help obtaining follow-up care. The program will also test
whether personalized education and counseling improves follow-
“My experience volunteering at free screening events
showed me that we’ve been approaching the challenge the
up adherence compared to standard education.
wrong way,” says Dr. Newman-Casey. “We disproportionately
screen low-risk individuals, and when we do identify a patient
cial barrier to screening and care, including cost, transporta-
with glaucoma, we leave too many barriers to follow-up care
tion, mistrust of providers, and skepticism that a disease with
unaddressed.”
no symptoms can lead to blindness,” says Dr. Newman-Casey.
“We’re excited to see if we can improve outcomes for at-risk
Two clinics serving low income populations, the Hope
“We’ve tried to address every key logistical and psychoso-
Clinic in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and the Hamilton Clinic in Flint,
individuals in our area and create a roadmap for expansion to
Michigan, are partnering with Kellogg for the trial, Screening
other communities.”
and Intervention for Glaucoma and eye Health through
The Next Frontier: Tele-Genetics There are about 30 genetic counselors devoted to inherited eye diseases serving the entire United States. Kellogg is home to two of them.
To expand access to this rare specialty, Kellogg is exploring
partnerships with ophthalmologists outside of southeast Michigan with patients in need of genetic counseling.
The aim is to use videoconferencing to link patients and family
members with Kellogg genetic counselors Kari Branham, M.S., C.G.C., and Dana Schlegel, M.S., M.P.H., C.G.C. Remote counseling could take place prior to genetic testing to gather family histories and discuss the risks, benefits and limitations of testing. After genetic testing, the same remote approach could be used to explain the diagnosis of an inherited disease, explore potential risks to other family members, or discuss whether experimental genetic treatments might be available. 19
Ophthalmology (KECIO) are celebrated on International Night. The evening’s keynote speaker was Senait Fesseha, M.D., J.D. Born in Ethiopia, Dr. Fisseha was educated in the U.S. and the U.K. She trained in obstetrics and gynecology, including a fellowship in reproductive endocrinology
“
.D. ., J .D
Kellogg Eye Center for International
Fes se ha , M
Each year, the accomplishments of the
— Se nait
“
Highlights from International Night
HOME IS WHERE YOUR STORY BEGINS, AND HERE IS WHERE MY STORY BEGAN.
and infertility at Michigan Medicine. As an associate professor at U-M, she served as
Dr. Fisseha credits U-M with providing the opportunities, mentorship and support she needed to pursue a career in global health. “Home is where your story
medical director of the Michigan Center for Repro-
begins,” she told the audience, “and here
ductive Medicine and was the founding executive director
is where my story began.”
of the Center for International Reproductive Health Training.
20
Dr. Fesseha helped Michigan set up a partnership
International Collaborations
with St. Paul's hospital in Ethiopia (see page 22).
She joined the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation in 2015
of their global outreach projects with KECIO, which included
as director of international programs.
clinical and research initiatives with partners in Ethiopia,
Jamaica and India.
One of the world’s foremost experts in reproductive health
During the 2019 event, three trainees shared highlights
access in developing countries, Dr. Fisseha challenged the
audience to “tip the scales of power” in global health. Among
scholars to Michigan for specialized training. At the event
her recommendations: address inequalities in leadership and
Sherry Day, O.D., shared details about Kellogg’s curriculum
research collaboration and move beyond a disease-specific focus
in specialty contact lenses and low-vision rehabilitation. Now
toward efforts that strengthen health systems — from supply
in its sixth year, the courses have been completed by trainees
chain logistics to workforce development and informatics.
from as far away as Israel, Kenya, Poland and Taiwan.
Equally important is KECIO’s work to bring visiting
Monte A. Del Monte, M.D., Donna Donato, Christine C. Nelson, M.D., Senait Fesseha, M.D., J.D., and Jonathan D. Trobe, M.D., commemorate International Night at Kellogg.
Joshua Ehrlich, M.D., M.P.H., visiting with colleagues at the Aravind Eye Care System in India.
Kellogg/Aravind Research Supported by New World Medical Award Established in the 1980s, Michigan's and Kellogg’s collabora-
Monthly ‘eye camps’ are held in local villages to provide free
tion with India’s Aravind Eye Care System continues to foster
screening, then patients who need surgery are transported to
innovation. Aravind and Kellogg received the New World Medical Health Outcomes Research Award for 2019 to support research on potential enhancements
a privately held manufacturer of
“
cal trial design — randomizing eye camps instead of individual patients. Two technology upgrades were added
a
devices to treat glaucoma. The annual award supports research in eye health care delivery in underserved regions.
h,
osh u
New World Medical, Inc., is
—J
h
c r li
The team took a novel approach to clini-
M.P.H.
Assistant professor Joshua
Ehrlich, M.D., M.P.H., is Kellogg’s co-principal investigator on the proj-
to one group of camps: digital
“
and treat eye diseases in rural India.
E
of Aravind’s existing model to screen for
D., M.
Pondicherry for no-charge care.”
WE’RE EXCITED ABOUT THE POTENTIAL
fundus photography to image retinas, and electronic health records to track follow-up.
TO BUILD ON ARAVIND’S PROVEN
Preliminary findings
APPROACH TO MEET INDIA’S GROWING
from the study of more than
NEED TO ADDRESS AGE-RELATED
3,000 patients show impres-
ect, along with Rengaraj Venkatesh, M.D., and Dayakar Yadalla, M.D., from Aravind. “Aravind’s eye hospital in the city of Pondicherry is one of the only eye care facilities serving about four million people across a large geographic area,” Dr. Ehrlich explains. “They’ve developed a ‘hub-and-spoke’ approach to screen and triage patients.
EYE DISEASES.
sive increases in both the number of diseases diagnosed and the number of patients who receive follow-up care at the camps with the technology upgrades. Says Dr. Ehrlich, “We’re excited about the potential to build on Aravind’s proven
approach to meet India’s and potentially other regions’ growing need to address age-related eye diseases.” 21
Left: A snapshot from the residency graduation at St. Paul's Hospital in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Right: Pediatric ophthalmologist Dr. Mandefro Sintayehu, Christine C. Nelson, M.D., and Dr. Girum Gebreal, the ophthalmology department chair.
Ethiopian Residency Program Graduates First Class
The curriculum includes a foundation in research
fundamentals. The class of 2019 conducted two studies in collaboration with visiting U-M third-year medical student Curtis Heisel. The first was an assessment of patient awareness of glaucoma to guide future public education initiatives. The
In 2015, Kellogg faculty partnered with the St. Paul Hospital
second gathered standard eye measurements (how deep, close
Millennium Medical Center (SPHMMC) in Addis Ababa,
together or far apart eyes are set, how much eyelids droop, etc.)
Ethiopia, to establish an ophthalmologic residency program.
from area residents. The resulting dataset is the first of its kind
This year, the first group of six trainees graduated from the four-year program. Christine Nelson, M.D., chief of
Ophthalmology, leads the initiative. “We’re so proud of the inaugural
—C
the Kellogg International Center of
class,” she says. “Their board examination scores contributed to Ethiopia posting the highest scores in the specialty of any country on the African continent.”
Several other Michigan
Medicine specialties have launched
N
o els
HAPPENS IN UNDERSERVED REGIONS
WHEN PHYSICIANS PURSUE SPECIALTY TRAINING OUT OF COUNTRY AND
traveled to St. Paul’s to mentor faculty and residents. “The goal is to build capacity and counter
the ‘brain drain’ that happens in underserved regions when physicians pursue specialty training out of country and never return,” says Dr. Nelson. All six new ophthalmologists
22
As the resident education program
AND COUNTER THE ‘BRAIN DRAIN’ THAT
and many Kellogg specialists have
have secured positions practicing in Ethiopia.
Looking ahead
THE GOAL IS TO BUILD CAPACITY
training programs with SPHMMC,
country’s more than 80 distinct ethnicities.
.D.
“
hri sti ne
oculoplastic surgery and a co-director of
n, M
“
in Ethiopia, where eye characteristics vary across the
NEVER RETURN.
continues, additional KelloggSPHMMC research and training projects will begin in 2020. Dr. Nelson will lead an initiative to perform 1,000 pediatric eye screenings, using a mobile app developed by Kellogg professor Hakan Demirci, M.D., to help identify symptoms of 135 eye disorders. A new, two-year ophthalmology medical assistant training program will welcome its first 10 students, filling an urgent need for
skilled support staff. This enables physicians and
nurses to practice at their level of training and creates job opportunities in a country challenged by high unemployment.
Strengthening Research Capacity in India The numbers speak for themselves: India is home to 17 percent of the world’s population, and a quarter of the world’s blind or visually impaired — more than any other country. Since 1990, India’s disability burden from eye disease has increased 24 percent and is projected to continue to rise as the population
Dr. S. R. Krishnadas, David Musch, Ph.D., M.P.H., Joshua Ehrlich, M.D., M.P.H., Alan Robin, M.D., and Dr. Ashok Vardhan.
ages and life expectancy increases. More than 9 in 10 cases of vision loss in India result from non-communicable eye disease, and 3 in 4 are avoidable.
Compounding this large and growing health crisis is an
ideal platform to launch an ambitious research training program
acute need for additional medical research expertise generally
to address India’s specific eye health challenges.
and ophthalmic research specifically. Typically, medical
education in India does not include instruction in designing
population research skills. The goal is to further develop the
and conducting research studies, and additional investigators
capacity of junior and mid-career AECS faculty to identify
are needed to explore the specific factors contributing to India’s
and implement evidence-based interventions to reduce vision
epidemic of preventable eye disease and vision loss.
loss from preventable and treatable diseases.
A team of Kellogg researchers will soon be working with
The program curriculum will emphasize clinical and
The program will be directed by Joshua Ehrlich, M.D.,
colleagues in India to strengthen capacity to conduct clinical and
M.P.H., an assistant professor at Kellogg, David Musch, Ph.D.,
epidemiological research needed to address these fundamental
M.P.H., a professor at both Kellogg and the U-M School of
issues.
Public Health’s Department of Epidemiology, and Thulasiraj Ravilla, M.B.A, director of operations at AECS, with support
A platform for change
from Kellogg director and chair of Ophthalmology and
For nearly 40 years, the University of Michigan has collaborated
Visual Sciences Paul Lee, M.D., J.D., and AECS chairman
with the Aravind Eye Care System (AECS), the world’s largest
R.D. Ravindran, M.S., D.O. A grant application for a NIH
eye care system, to cross-train providers and operational
Fogarty International Research Training Award to support
leaders. The established, productive partnership provides the
this five-year program is currently under review.
Dean’s Award Donna Donato, administrative director for the Kellogg Eye Center for International Ophthalmology (KECIO), was named Support Staff Member of the Year by Marschall S. Runge, M.D., Ph.D., Dean of the University of Michigan Medical School. The annual Dean’s Awards acknowledge the exceptional accomplishments and distinctive service of faculty and staff.
“Donna Donato has been the heart and soul of the
Center since its inception nearly a decade ago,” says KECIO co-director Jonathan Trobe, M.D. “Among the countless functions she performs flawlessly, Donna is the lifeline for our visiting scholars, overseeing every detail of their time at Kellogg. The many successes of this unique program are impossible to imagine without her.” 23
Eye and Vision Research Grant from Eversight awarded to Abigail Fahim, M.D., Ph.D. Clinical assistant professor Abigail Fahim, M.D., Ph.D., was one of five 2019 recipients of an Eye and Vision Research Grant from the Eversight Center for Vision and Eye Banking Research. The grant provides early-stage funding for Dr. Fahim’s research into the molecular drivers of choroideremia, one of several early-onset inherited blinding retinal diseases for which there are no current treatments. Dr. Fahim’s lab is focusing on the gene CHM, which plays a key role in transporting proteins within cells. She hypothesizes that the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), a layer of cells between the retina and the choroid (the retinal blood supply at
Abigail Fahim, M.D., Ph.D., and Ebony Johnson from the from the Eversight Center for Vision and Eye Banking Research.
the back of the eye), drives the development of choroideremia by altering the secretion of proteins towards the retina and the choroid. To test this theory, Dr. Fahim’s team has developed a model of RPE cells affected with choroideremia. This novel approach will help better describe how the choroideremia genetic defect causes disease and provide a platform for testing potential treatments in human cells. Dr. Fahim was also among the researchers invited to participate in the National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research (NAEVR) Emerging Vision Scientist Day in Washington, D.C. The event connects early-career investigators with legislators to promote robust National Institutes of Health research funding, stressing the importance of seed funding to incubate the work of promising investigators.
24
The Eversight Center's Carrie Wolverton with David Antonetti, Ph.D., Dr. Fahim, Ebony Johnson and Paul Lee, M.D., J.D.
Donald Puro, M.D., Ph.D., has been
contributions to ocular physiology
elected a Fellow of the American
and pathobiology — specifically, for
Association for the Advancement of
his novel use of patch clamp technol-
Science (AAAS). Founded in 1848,
ogy to study ophthalmic diseases.
the AAAS was the first organization
founded to promote the development
patch clamp is a Nobel prize-
and accomplishments of the scientific
winning electrophysiology technique
community in the United States.
used to examine the movement
Developed in the late 1970s,
Dr. Puro, professor of ophthal-
of ions in and out of cells. As an
mology and visual sciences and of
ophthalmology resident, Dr. Puro
molecular and integrative physiology
saw the potential of the new tool and
at Michigan, was elected an
incorporated it into his laboratory
AAAS Fellow in recognition of his
studies.
Dr. Lindsay De Lott explains how optic neuritis affects the eye.
Improving Treatment Decisions for Optic Neuritis Acute demyelinating optic neuritis is an inflammation of the
Dr. De Lott’s project, supported by a Mentored Patient-
optic nerve often associated with multiple sclerosis. It results
Oriented Research Career Development (K23) award, draws on
in decreased vision and ability to see color, as well as pain with
her expertise in both neuro-ophthalmology and health services
eye movement.
research, and reflects her commitment — and the NIH/NEI
through an IV, has been shown to help speed recovery some-
mission — to advance personalized medicine in the treatment of ocular diseases.
what, but it appears to do nothing to improve long-term visual outcomes. It also has potential risks, including medication
treat nearly every patient with intensive steroid therapy. “We’re working to help providers move away from this one-size-fits-all approach, toward more nuanced decisionmaking,” says Kellogg assistant professor Lindsey De Lott, M.D., M.S. Her research has two aims: understand current provider perceptions about the efficacy and risks of steroid treatment, and design a decision-making tool that helps direct the right treatment to the right patient.
t Lo
t,
“
De
injections. Despite this lackluster reward/risk tradeoff, providers
Li n d sey
side effects, and the inconvenience, cost and discomfort of
D., M.
M.S.
“
The established treatment, steroid medication delivered
WE’RE WORKING TO HELP PROVIDERS MOVE AWAY FROM THIS ONE-SIZE-
FITS-ALL APPROACH, TOWARD MORE NUANCED DECISION-MAKING.
25
Next-Generation Prognostication Kellogg researchers are leading several projects using machine-learning technology, a form of artificial intelligence, to analyze huge amounts of data on patients with ocular diseases. The results of their efforts illustrate the technology’s potential to make personalized predictions of disease stability and help guide clinical management decisions.
Tapping Into Big Data For the past two years, Joshua Stein, M.D., M.S., and his team
Nambi Nallasamy, M.D., Joshua D. Stein, M.D., M.S., and Maria A. Woodward, M.D., M.S. All are working on ways to apply machine learning to ophthalmology. An infection or ulceration of the cornea, MK is the fourthleading cause of blindness worldwide. Although the clinical
of biostatisticians, data architects and research assistants have
features and severity of MK symptoms vary widely, most
been building the Sight Outcomes Research Collaborative
patients are treated with nonspecific broad-spectrum antimicro-
(SOURCE) repository, a transformative resource that contains
bials, increasing their risk of developing antimicrobial resistance.
hundreds of millions of data points from the electronic health
Her project uses two algorithms to characterize the full
records and ocular diagnostic tests of patients receiving eye care
clinical spectrum of MK. The first, developed with Karandeep
at the Kellogg Eye Center. After methodically preparing the
Singh, M.D., an assistant professor of learning health sciences
data and removing all patient identifiers, the team feeds it into
and internal medicine at Michigan Medicine, will extract and
sophisticated machine-learning algorithms to provide clinicians
analyze MK data from patient records in the SOURCE database.
with new tools to better care for patients with ocular diseases.
The second, the result of a partnership with Sina Farsiu, Ph.D.,
Based on the success of this initiative at Kellogg, other
an associate professor of biomedical engineering and ophthal-
academic ophthalmology departments nationwide are now
mology at Duke University, automates the process of analyzing
sharing their data in a new collaborative arrangement with
slit lamp images of MK.
SOURCE. The database contains more than 500,000 patients
The information will be combined to build a new evidence-
with ocular diseases, 1.2 million office visits, 36,000 eye
based model to classify and score MK, which physicians can use
surgeries, 8 million laboratory test results, 17.8 million
to assess risks and personalize treatments.
medication orders and 530,000 images of the retina. Researchers have been tapping into data from SOURCE to learn about an array of different ocular diseases. Examples
Machine learning may also help doctors select the optimal
of projects using this resource include generating personalized
artificial lens to implant during cataract surgery, the most
forecasts of whether a patient’s glaucoma will remain stable
commonly performed surgical procedure in the world.
or experience progression over time, using machine learning
Currently, doctors choose from a number of formulas
to predict the small subset of patients who are at high risk for
that recommend a power of intraocular lens (IOL) to implant.
experiencing poor outcomes following cataract surgery, and
There is no optimal formula; each uses measurements such
predicting which patients with keratoconus will require corneal
as eye length or corneal power, and each has the potential to
transplantation.
overestimate or underestimate these variables.
Targeting Treatment for Corneal Ulcers Corneal specialist Maria Woodward, M.D., M.S., is using
26
Choosing the Best Lens for Cataract Surgery
Kellogg corneal specialist Nambi Nallasamy, M.D., is bringing doctors more precise tools for this critical decision. As a first step, his team developed an algorithm to help
machine-learning algorithms to drive individualized treatments
doctors choose an IOL formula from six established options.
for microbial keratitis (MK).
The algorithm can predict which formula produces the smallest
Drs. Nallasamy and Stein with the team of biostatisticians, data architects and research assistants working on the SOURCE database. error in refraction based on a patient’s preoperative eye
measurements. Testing with the SOURCE database showed
(see page 33) who pioneered the use of ultra-high-resolution
this improved accuracy by 13.5 percent.
optical coherence tomography (OCT) alone as a noninvasive
optical biopsy. Dr. Nallasamy, who Dr. Karp mentored, believes
Dr. Nallasamy is now working on a data-driven, patient-
A notable exception is Kellogg alumnus Carol Karp, M.D.
specific IOL selection tool to someday replace existing selection
artificial intelligence tools can expand this diagnostic approach.
formulas.
Dr. Nallasamy is collaborating with Kellogg ocular
oncologist Hakam Demirci, M.D., to build a comprehensive Non-Invasive Diagnosis of Ocular Surface Tumors
dataset of pathology and imaging on a variety of ocular surface
Dr. Nallasamy is also applying machine learning to diagnose
tumors. Then, they will develop and test an algorithm to
tumors on the eye’s surface in a noninvasive, completely
distinguish between cancerous and benign lesions, classify
data-driven way.
cancerous lesions, and differentiate tumor cells from healthy
tissue. This automated, virtual biopsy may even help identify
Why? Few doctors can differentiate between benign and
cancerous surface lesions using imaging alone, so surgical
subtle features OCT does not recognize.
biopsies are needed to confirm diagnoses.
Honorary Award Lectures
Sayoko Moroi, M.D., Ph.D., has been selected to give the 2020
This year, the American Society
American Glaucoma Society Clinician-
of Ophthalmic Plastic and
Scientist Lecture.
Reconstructive Surgery awarded
Each year, a special committee of
Christine Nelson, M.D.,
the AGS bestows this honor on an
the James A. Katowitz Pediatric
individual who exemplifies excellence
Award. Dr. Nelson, the Bartley R. Frueh, M.D. and Frueh Family Collegiate Professor of Eye Plastics and Orbital Surgery at Kellogg, was honored in recognition of her longstanding contributions to the field of pediatric oculoplastic surgery.
in both patient care and basic research.
Dr. Moroi held the Jerome Jacobson Professorship in
Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at Kellogg until January 2020, when she was named Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center. 27
An Eye Research Connection That Could Change Stroke Care While studying diabetic retinopathy, a Kellogg researcher made a connection that could one day revolutionize stroke care.
David A. Antonetti, Ph.D., is the Roger W. Kittendorf
Connecting the Dots At the same time, Dr. Antonetti knew of a drug called ruboxistaurin that was in the development pipeline as a
Research Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and
potential treatment for diabetic retinopathy. Clinical trials
a professor of molecular and integrative physiology. His lab
confirmed its effectiveness in protecting retinal vascular barriers
studies the protective blood-retinal barrier and how it is
but indicated that when used over many years (as is necessary
compromised in diseases like diabetic retinopathy.
to manage diabetic retinopathy), its cumulative side effects
could be harmful. For that reason, clinical testing for diabetic
In 2009, the Antonetti lab demonstrated that the blood-
retinal barrier is weakened when the protein occludin is
retinopathy was suspended.
compromised. “We began to wonder if something similar might
be happening in the other part of the body where blood vessels
rin could be used with tPA as a one-time rescue treatment for
perform the same protective function — the blood-brain barrier,”
stroke patients — preventing damage to the blood-brain barrier,
says Dr. Antonetti.
but without the potential side effects of using tPA too late. This
could greatly extend the time for which strokes can be treated.
To investigate, Dr. Antonetti reached out to blood-brain
Drs. Antonetti and Lawrence hypothesize that ruboxistau-
barrier expert and Michigan Medicine stroke researcher Daniel
The Antonetti and Lawrence laboratories began the basic science
Lawrence, Ph.D., Frederick G. L. Huetwell Collegiate Professor
steps necessary to investigate this idea, which has led to exciting
of Basic Research in Cardiovascular Medicine. Dr. Lawrence
new preliminary data and an NIH-funded R01 grant to fully
was the first to demonstrate that tissue plasminogen activator
explore the potential of this treatment.
(tPA), a drug used to restore blood flow in the brain after a
stroke, can damage the blood-brain barrier if administered
says Dr. Antonetti. “We’re discovering that important research
too late after an acute stroke. If given too many hours after a
in one area may actually lead to previously unrecognized
stroke, tPA can trigger a similar — but even more profound —
therapies for other diseases. Diabetic retinopathy has benefited
weakening of and damage to blood vessels than what
enormously from cancer research, and we hope that stroke
Dr. Antonetti observed in retinopathy models.
patients can benefit from eye research. Each step forward leads
“This is why it’s such an exciting time in medical science,”
to a new opportunity to share therapeutic advances.”
“
DIABETIC RETINOPATHY HAS BENEFITED
“
ENORMOUSLY FROM CANCER RESEARCH, AND
WE HOPE THAT STROKE PATIENTS CAN BENEFIT Ph.D
.
FROM EYE RESEARCH. EACH STEP FORWARD
ne
A
.A
nt o
THERAPEUTIC ADVANCES.
id av D —
28
tt i ,
LEADS TO A NEW OPPORTUNITY TO SHARE
“
F.A D., , M. — Yannis Paulus
“
THE ULTIMATE GOAL IS NOT ONLY EARLY DIAGNOSIS, BUT EARLY, PRECISION
.S .C
.
TREATMENT.
Photoacoustic Imaging for Macular Degeneration Neovascular age-related macular degeneration, or wet macular
biomedical engineering. This has limited its effectiveness for
degeneration, is characterized by the creation of new blood
imaging larger eyes.
vessels in the choroid layer of the eye. If not treated early,
the resulting swelling, fluid buildup and bleeding can result
It’s now more sensitive, able to generate very high resolution
in significant and irreversible vision loss.
images of emerging blood vessel formation, even in larger
mammalian eyes. It also uses less energy — a fraction of the
The No. 1 factor in predicting treatment outcomes for
The Paulus lab has improved the technology in two ways:
wet macular degeneration is the patient’s vision at the time
established safe limit. These advances make photoacoustic
of diagnosis, so early detection is vital. But current methods
microscopy for the human eye far more attractive.
of imaging the retina only capture the effects of choroidal
neovascularization already in progress.
technology. His team is experimenting with injecting light-
activated therapeutic nanoparticles into the retina to slow
Kellogg researchers led by Yannis Paulus, M.D., F.A.C.S.,
Dr. Paulus will use the grant to continue refining the
are applying a novel imaging technology to spot retinal changes
or stop neovascularization without damaging cells.
before anatomic evidence of disease appears. The work is
supported by an NIH Mentored Clinical Scientist Development
precision treatment,” he says.
“The ultimate goal is not only early diagnosis, but early,
(K08) award, which funds early career clinician-scientists conducting basic research.
The technology, photoacoustic microscopy, uses both light
waves and sound waves to see activity at the molecular level. This concept is commonly used in tumor imaging, but until now its potential in ophthalmology has been largely unrealized.
The Paulus lab is one of a handful worldwide to apply
photoacoustic microscopy to retinal imaging in animal models, and has pioneered its potential in large eyes such as human eyes.
“The challenge with the technology has been that the
farther away the machine’s detector is from the source — in this case, the retina — the weaker the sound waves it captures, and the poorer the resulting image,” says Dr. Paulus, assistant professor of ophthalmology and visual sciences and of
A photoacoustic microscopy image reveals the structure of newly forming retinal blood vessels. 29
“
WE FOUND THAT MYRF REGULATES
THE EXPRESSION OF THE GENE TMEM98,
“
PREVIOUSLY IMPLICATED IN NANOPHTHALMOS. IN MOUSE MODELS WITHOUT MYRF, WE SAW A — Julia
SHARP DECLINE IN THE EXPRESSION OF TMEM98,
P s, ard Rich
FURTHER EVIDENCE THAT A MYRFTMEM98 INTERACTION CAUSES NANOPHTHALMOS.
h.D
.
Kellogg Team Identifies the Genetic Origins of Nanophthalmos In people born with nanophthalmos, the eyes are small, but the eye structures — including the size of the lens — are other-
“There are numerous steps in making a gene-disease
wise normal. A normal-sized lens in a small eyeball can cause
connection,” says Dr. Prasov. “One is to confirm that
a host of vision-related problems, including severe hyperopia
whatever mutation you suspect is not unique to members
(farsightedness), amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed
of one bloodline. For our study, we augmented the information
eyes) in children, retinal detachments, and glaucoma.
from NN01 with that of unrelated nanophthalmos patients
Nanophthalmos also makes ocular procedures like cataract
to ensure we started with a comprehensive sample.”
surgery riskier.
same region, looking for mutations or “misspellings” that might
A Kellogg team led by ophthalmologist and geneticist
The team then sequenced numerous genes within the
Lev Prasov, M.D., Ph.D., is the first to link nanophthalmos
be driving the development of the disease. “During that process,
with a mutation in the myelin regulatory factor (MYRF)
MYRF rose to the top of the list of compelling misspellings,”
gene that causes it to produce an abnormal protein. They
Dr. Prasov explains.
also established an interaction between MYRF and TMEM98,
another gene implicated in nanophthalmos, describing a new
link was established. “We found that MYRF regulates the
pathway for eye growth and development.
expression of the gene TMEM98, previously implicated in
The findings, published in the journal PLOS Genetics,
nanophthalmos,” Dr. Richards says. “In mouse models without
build on the work of Kellogg professor emerita Julia Richards,
MYRF, we saw a sharp decline in the expression of TMEM98,
Ph.D., who led the team that, after identifying one large family
further evidence that a MYRF/TMEM98 interaction causes
with numerous occurrences of nanophthalmos, first linked the
nanophthalmos.”
origins of the condition to a specific area in the genome called the NN01 locus. 30
A Compelling Misspelling
During the genetic sequencing process, another important
“
“
FOR OUR STUDY, WE AUGMENTED
THE INFORMATION FROM NN01 WITH
THAT OF UNRELATED NANOPHTHALMOS
Ph.D
ov ,M
.D. ,
WITH A COMPREHENSIVE SAMPLE.
.
PATIENTS TO ENSURE WE STARTED
—
as Pr v e L
Clinical Implications
up to 80 percent of adults in Asia. “It’s exciting to imagine how
The finding points to a brighter future for children born with
this new knowledge about eye development may open a door to
nanophthalmos. “We know that the eye continues to grow after
new interventions to address a major worldwide public health
birth,” says Dr. Prasov, “so there are opportunities to intervene
issue.”
early with genetic counseling and screening for nanophthalmos
and to prescribe glasses. Eventually we hope to develop geneti-
Clinician Scientist Award for his studies of the genetic basis of
cally targeted treatments as well.”
developmental ocular disorders. He continues his focus on the
genetic mechanisms of nanophthalmos as an assistant professor
Dr. Prasov also sees the potential of this discovery to
In 2019, Dr. Prasov received the ARVO/Alcon Early Career
address a much more common problem. “While nanophthalmos
of ophthalmology and visual sciences and of human genetics and
results in an underdeveloped eye, myopia, or nearsightedness,
a scholar in the Michigan Vision Clinician-Scientist Develop-
occurs when the eye grows too much,” he explains. Myopia
ment Program. His work is supported in part by grants from the
impacts 30 to 40 percent of adults in the U.S. and Europe and
Knights Templar Eye Foundation.
K12 Grants Support Talented Young Physician-scientists
Kellogg’s K12 grant supports the Michigan Vision Clinician-
Scientist Development Program. The program provides time, resources and mentorship to up to two investigators each year
The National Institutes of Health/National Eye Institute supports
to a point when they can compete for individual K-grant
efforts to prepare the next generation of ophthalmology
funding. “Our K12 scholars are terrific examples of Kellogg’s
researchers through a series of Research Career Development
deep bench of talented young physician-scientists,” says Dr.
Awards, or K grants, to pursue laboratory and clinical research.
Gardner. “We’re proud of them all.”
The Kellogg Eye Center consistently ranks among the top
Abigail Fahim, M.D., Ph.D., is beginning her second
academic institutions in K-grant funding, including a K12
year of K12 support. Lev Prasov, M.D., Ph.D., is the newest
institutional training grant overseen by professors Thomas
investigator supported by the K12
Gardner, M.D., M.S., and Paul Lee, M.D., J.D. 31
Alumni Highlights AMD Research Award
Carol L. Karp, M.D. (Residency, 1993) is the Richard K. Forster Chair in Ophthalmology and the Dr. Ronald
Jason Miller, M.D., Ph.D., was one of only four U.S.
and Alicia Lepke Endowed Professor in
ophthalmology residents and fellows invited to participate in the
Corneal Diseases at the University of
AUPO/RPB Resident and Fellow Research Forum. Showcasing the work of the most promising emerging vision researchers,
Miami Health System Bascom Palmer
the forum is held at the annual meeting of the Association of
Eye Institute in Miami, Florida. A
University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO) and is sup-
trailblazing clinician and researcher, her work in both non-surgical therapeu-
ported by a grant from Research to Prevent Blindness (RPB).
Dr. Miller’s research focuses on the pathways leading to
tics and ocular imaging have transformed the diagnosis and
the degeneration of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in the
management of ocular surface tumors.
dry form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
The RPE is a layer of cells that support photoreceptors,
the cells that translate light into electrical signals that travel to the brain. Among its many functions, the RPE controls the amount of fat in and around photoreceptors. Dr. Miller hypothesizes that inefficiencies in how the RPE does this job can lead to the fatty deposits associated with dry AMD, and that medications can be used to relieve this buildup.
Using RPE cells cultured in his lab, Dr. Miller studies cell
Years before eye injections became standard practice,
she pioneered the injection of interferon around the eye along with topical drops, with remarkable curative outcomes. Dr. Karp also helped develop a non-invasive “optical biopsy” known as OCT, which yields more precise diagnostics and treatment planning for benign and malignant ocular tumors.
Since winning the LaBerge and Slocum resident awards
at Kellogg for her first publication in Ophthalmology as a resi-
processes that improve fat handling, including the pathway
dent, she now has over 130 peer-reviewed manuscripts, and
tasked with self-digesting unwanted parts of the cell. He has
more than 25 chapters. She has also received multiple awards
identified specific molecules that activate the pathway and
from the AAO and AMA for her service and mentorship.
decrease fat deposits in and around the RPE. This may lead to
new treatments that promote photoreceptor survival, slowing
“I discovered my love of research there, and by example, my
the rate of progression of dry AMD.
Kellogg mentors showed me how to be an ethical, thorough
“I’m forever grateful for my time at Kellogg,” she says.
investigator and a compassionate, patient-focused clinician.” Ryan Fante, M.D. (Residency, 2014) is a practicing ophthalmologist at the Sansum Clinic in Santa Barbara, California.
Celebrating its 98th anniversary in
2019, the Sansum Clinic is the oldest and largest not-for-profit outpatient healthcare provider on California’s central coast. Dr. Fante is one of six ophthalmologists in a multispecialty group of 180 physicians.
Dr. Fante’s practice includes cataract and minimally
invasive glaucoma surgery as well as injections and laser treatments for macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Since joining the clinic in 2014, he has also stepped into leadership roles on Sansum’s Clinician Advisory Committee and Peer Review and Credentialing Committee.
“Unlike many of my peers, I did not elect to do a
fellowship,” he says. “But thanks to my residency at Kellogg, I was more than prepared to hit the ground running in a busy, 32
comprehensive ophthalmology practice.”
Raymond Cho, M.D. (Fellowship, 2009) is director of ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery at the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center.
Dr. Cho specializes in plastic and
reconstructive surgery of the eyelids, orbit and lacrimal drainage system. He is also an associate professor at the Ohio State University College of Medicine and a member of the OSU Wexner Medical Center skull base team. He is well known for his expertise in the treatment of thyroid orbitopathy, orbital trauma and complex periocular and orbitofacial reconstruction after cancer resection.
“I was fortunate to have completed my fellowship at
Kellogg,” he says. “Kellogg provided world-class training in ophthalmic plastic and reconstructive surgery, preparing me for the wide variety of surgical challenges I face in my clinical practice.”
A More Complete Picture of Intraocular Tumors To properly diagnose and treat cancer, it is essential to understand not only the physical characteristics of a tumor, but also
Courtney Kauh, M.D. (Residency,
its molecular and chemical properties. This presents a particular
2015) is a practicing oculoplastic
challenge for tumors in hard-to-reach spots or where traditional
surgeon at the Ohio State University
tissue biopsy is impractical, like inside the eye.
Wexner Medical Center.
Diagnosis of intraocular tumors mainly requires noninva-
sive imaging technologies like optical coherence tomography
Dr. Kauh joined the Wexner
Medical Center’s Havener Eye Institute in 2017. Her busy practice includes surgical procedures to treat orbital and periorbital tumors, eye trauma and diseases, and eyelid and tear duct abnormalities. She also coordinates a comprehensive
and ultrasound. While these tools show the tumor’s structural characteristics, they don’t reveal key molecular and chemical properties.
A multidisciplinary Michigan Medicine team including
new Kellogg assistant professor Guan Xu, Ph.D., is addressing the limitations of current imaging modalities with a new hybrid technology called photoacoustic imaging (PAI).
orbital dissection course for ophthalmology residents, and
cares for patients at the Veteran’s Administration facility
both light (photo) and sound (acoustic) waves. A laser inserted
in Columbus.
through a fine needle endoscope illuminates an area of tissue.
As the tissue absorbs the light energy and converts it to heat,
“My residency experience at Kellogg was exceptional,”
As its name implies, PAI combines useful properties of
says Dr. Kauh. “I had terrific instructors in every discipline,
it generates high-frequency waves that reveal its structural
many of whom remain colleagues and mentors to this day.”
characteristics. At the same time, the tissue projects some
The surgical training Dr. Kauh received played a big
role in her choice to specialize in oculoplastics. “I learned from the best, and have incorporated many of their surgical techniques into my practice.”
of the absorbed infrared light as a different light form that provides information about the tissue’s chemical properties.
PAI can potentially be used to image tumors anywhere
in the body. Dr. Xu, who is also an assistant professor of biomedical engineering, has demonstrated its ability to characterize several tissue types in mice. His application of PAI to prostate cancer has been recognized with a prestigious NIH Method to Extend Research in Time (MERIT) award. At Kellogg, he will focus on refining the use of PAI to diagnose and direct treatment for intraocular tumors.
33
33
Legacies in Vision
MICHIGAN MEDICINE
Donors Establish Endowed Chairs, Ensuring Leadership and Progress
UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN
The Kellogg Eye Center inaugurated three professorships this
a long-time Kellogg supporter; he made generous gifts to vision
year — two established by longtime patients and one by a
research and ophthalmic education, and Kellogg’s Resident
faculty member of more than 60 years. Each will support
Education Center is named in his honor. The professorship
faculty, providing time for research, educational and leadership
was created through a bequest.
activities in perpetuity.
success with others.
“We are very grateful to these individuals, whose generos-
Mr. Kittendorf often said he felt privileged to share his
ity and foresight will forever benefit faculty and patients,” says
Paul P. Lee, M.D., J.D., F. Bruce Fralick Professor and chair of
to science and his passion for pushing the envelope to benefit
the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. “And
patients,” says Paul R. Lichter, M.D., M.S., an active emeritus
we were pleased to be able to recognize and support outstanding
professor and immediate past chair of the Department of
faculty members who are making significant contributions to
Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. “He would have been very
the field.”
moved to know that he was playing such a significant role in
“He would have been awed by David Antonetti’s approach
ensuring such work will continue at the University of Michigan Roger W. Kittendorf Research Professorship in
for generations to come.”
David A. Antonetti, Ph.D., became the inaugural Roger W.
Leonard G. Miller Professorship in Ophthalmology and
Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
Kittendorf Research Professor in Ophthalmology and Visual
Visual Sciences
Sciences on April 4.
When Rajesh C. Rao, M.D., became the first Leonard G. Miller
Professor in Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences on June 11,
Dr. Antonetti is scientific director at Kellogg and one of the
world’s leading experts in the blood-retinal barrier. He is part of
he described it as a transformative opportunity.
a team advancing approaches to protect and restore the barrier
during disease processes so vision can be saved and restored.
have to be one of the most inspiring places in the country for a
clinician-scientist to pursue dreams,” he says. “It is a privilege to
Roger W. Kittendorf, an attorney and businessman in
Genesee County, Michigan, died in 2012. Mr. Kittendorf was
Carol Bradford, M.D., M.S., presents the professorship award to David Antonetti, Ph.D. 34
“The Kellogg Eye Center and the University of Michigan
collaborate with colleagues inside and outside our department.”
Leonard G. Miller with Rajesh C. Rao, M.D. 34
Dr. Rao studies the role of epigenetics in retinal develop-
ment, which includes the chemical modifications on DNA and DNA-associated proteins that regulate gene activity. His aim is to advance treatments for blinding diseases. His team has made major contributions to the field, including linking the dysfunction of certain epigenetic proteins to blinding human diseases for the first time.
Leonard G. “Larry” Miller, a retired business owner and
philanthropist, wanted to support Dr. Rao's efforts. Mr. Miller has sought care for a range of eye conditions at the W.K. Kellogg Eye Center, including age-related macular degeneration.
A U-M graduate, Mr. Miller has provided wide-ranging
support to U-M. Additional gifts to Kellogg include purchasing two high-powered microscopes and supporting the eye center’s
Dr. Bradford with Steven M. Archer, M.D., and Paul P. Lee, M.D., J.D.
capital expansion campaign. Ida Lucy Iacobucci Collegiate Professorship in
died in 2017 at age 85, she arranged for the professorship to
Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
be established through her estate.
Steven M. Archer, M.D., became the first Ida Lucy Iacobucci
Collegiate Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences
researcher and educator, worked alongside Ms. Iacobucci for
on Aug. 14, a position that honors a longtime colleague.
nearly 30 years. His wide-ranging clinical research interests
include vision screening for preschoolers, the management of
Ms. Iacobucci, affectionately known as “Miss Ida,”
Dr. Archer, a pediatric ophthalmologist and dedicated
was a clinical associate professor of ophthalmology and visual
eye-muscle paralysis, improving surgical interventions and more.
sciences, for nearly 30 years and one of the country’s leading
About a third of his patients are adults with a misalignment of
specialists in orthoptics, which is the treatment of disorders
the eyes, and he has ongoing projects looking at the causes and
of vision, eye movements and eye alignment. She began her
treatment of double vision in adults. He also helped develop a
career at U-M in 1957, developing new treatment methods
standout fellowship program to train pediatric
and authoring two textbooks.
ophthalmologists.
She trained more than 300 ophthalmology residents and
Before she died, Ms. Iacobucci said it was her sincerest
orthoptics students in the clinic at Kellogg that now bears her
wish that Dr. Archer be the first to hold the professorship in
name: the Ida Lucy Iacobucci Orthoptics Clinic. Before she
her name.
Heed-Gutman Award Paul P. Lee, M.D., J.D. Kellogg Eye Center Director Paul P. Lee,
M.D., J.D., is the 2019 recipient of the
and Chair of the U-M Department of
prestigious Heed-Gutman Award from
Ophthalmology, was also recognized by
the Society of Heed Fellows. The award,
Women in Ophthalmology with the
presented during the annual meeting of
organization’s Honorary Lecture Award,
the American Academy of Ophthalmology,
which is given annually to recognize
recognizes extraordinary and distinguished
contributions as an educator, researcher
leadership in ophthalmology and major
or humanitarian. Dr. Lee’s lecture was
clinical, research and educational
presented at the 2019 WIO Summer
contributions to the field.
Symposium.
Dr. Lee, the F. Bruce Fralick Professor
35
Generous Gift Supports Early-Stage Vision Research Philanthropic support is critical to early-stage laboratory research, which is why longtime Kellogg supporters Laurie and Timothy Wadhams endowed the Wadhams Ophthalmic Research Fund. The gift will support cutting-edge research in its early stages.
“I experienced challenges with my eyesight at an early age,
Longtime Kellogg supporters Laurie and Timothy Wadhams have endowed the Wadhams Ophthalmic Research Fund.
and with successful treatment, was able to overcome them,” says Mr. Wadhams, retired CEO of Masco Corporation. “Laurie and I want to help ensure that treatments exist for all of the diseases that threaten vision.”
grants to researchers. Applications must include colleagues
The Wadhams’ endowed gift of more than $500,000 is
The Lichter Fund provides competitive, peer-reviewed
part of the Paul R. Lichter, M.D., M.S., Vision Research
in other departments and schools, catalyzing innovation and
Discovery Fund, an umbrella fund that supports research to
collaboration.
build knowledge and open doors for more effective treatments
and cures. With the contribution, the Lichter Fund reached
such as Brenda L. Bohnsack, M.D., Ph.D., the Helmut F. Stern
a pivotal $5 million milestone.
Career Development Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual
Sciences and a pediatric ophthalmologist. With a Lichter Fund
“Discovery research is the foundation of tomorrow’s
Proceeds from the Wadhams’ fund will support researchers
sight-saving therapies, and I am grateful for this partnership
grant, she studied a gene related to aniridia, a congenital eye
with Mr. and Mrs. Wadhams,” says Dr. Lichter, immediate past
disease, and established new, novel research partnerships across
chair of the U-M Department of Ophthalmology and Visual
Michigan.
Sciences and an active professor emeritus. “As physicians,
scientists and community members, ensuring ongoing scientific
further funding from the National Institutes of Health to
advancement is one of the greatest contributions we can make
continue her work on preventing the disease.
With the early-stage data that resulted, she applied for
to vision.”
In Memoriam: Terry J. Bergstrom, M.D. Terry J. Bergstrom M.D. (M.D. 1965,
His numerous accomplishments include serving
Residency 1969, Fellowship 1975), professor
as chief of the glaucoma service, chief of the low
emeritus of ophthalmology and visual sciences,
vision service, residency program director, and
died June 23, 2019, at the age of 85. Dr. Berg-
chief of the comprehensive ophthalmology
strom pursued his ophthalmology training while
service. He also served as chief of ophthalmol-
serving in the U.S. Air Force. Over the course of
ogy at the VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System.
his 26 year military career, he served as a flight
surgeon and chief ophthalmologist at March Air
Michigan were transcendent,” says Professor
Force Base in California and the USAF hospital in
Jonathan Trobe, M.D. “His passion for teaching
Wiesbaden, Germany. He received the Legion of
lives on through our resident teaching award,
Merit award upon retiring at the rank of colonel.
which was renamed in his honor after being
bestowed upon him for 14 consecutive years.”
In 1980, Dr. Bergstrom returned to his alma
mater and joined the faculty of the Kellogg Eye
An endowed professorship was also created
Center, where he practiced for 24 years and
in his name by grateful alumni and patients.
continued to work as an emeritus professor. 36
“Terry’s contributions to education at
Cheers! for Kellogg Family hosts fundraiser to support research of muchappreciated faculty member When the Kelleher family took their daughter Kate to Brenda Bohnsack, M.D., Ph.D., for childhood glaucoma, they were grateful to discover that she is a dedicated and caring pediatric ophthalmologist. Over many visits, they also learned she is a committed researcher, working to advance knowledge toward cures for pediatric eye diseases.
They wanted to help.
“Kate is 11 and just started middle school in the fall. She
is facing a disease that most people get when they are in their 60s or later, and she will have it her whole life,” says Alison Kelleher. “We were surprised at how little research is being done in this area, and thrilled that Dr. Bohnsack is changing that.”
“She is a rock star — a standout doctor,” says Michael
Kelleher. “We don’t take that for granted.”
The Kellehers live in Ann Arbor. Mr. Kelleher is in a sales
leadership position with Terryberry, a Grand Rapids, Michiganbased firm, and Mrs. Kelleher is a stay-at-home mom to Kate and her brother Brennan, 8. The family began making gifts to Dr. Bohnsack’s research and then decided to invite others to get involved as well.
They created Cheers! for Charity, a reception and silent
auction held in Ann Arbor, and hosted events in the fall of 2018 and 2019. About 100 people attended each, and the events together have raised more than $30,000.
“These funds are so important to advancing our work,”
says Dr. Bohnsack, the Helmut F. Stern Career Development Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at Kellogg. Her laboratory team studies eye development. By identifying ways to intervene when it goes awry, they are moving the field closer to new therapies to prevent vision loss and improve quality of life for children.
“The Kellehers’ family and friends are so enthusiastic
about our progress, which comes from how much they care about Kate and what she is facing,” says Dr. Bohnsack, who presents at Cheers! for Charity. “That is what motivates us, too — our patients.”
“These have been really, really great events,” Mrs. Kelleher
says. “People tell us how much they enjoy them. Not only are people learning about this — it is an eye-opening experience — but there is just a warmth and lots of love in the room.”
Alison, Michael and Kate Kelleher with Brenda Bohnsack, M.D., Ph.D. at the Cheers! for Charity event in Ann Arbor. 37
A Welcome Event Lobby naming celebrates generosity, families’ comfort Real estate developer Mickey Shapiro has a wealth of experience helping people feel at home. As founder of the M. Shapiro Real Estate Group, his companies own and provide property management services for communities throughout the United States and Canada.
That’s why it’s fitting that the Mickey Shapiro Surgical
Faculty and staff gathered to dedicate the Mickey Shapiro Surgical Care Lobby on May 6, 2019. From left: Paul R. Lichter, M.D., M.S., Mr. Shapiro, Carol George, BSN, R.N., and Paul P. Lee, M.D., J.D.
Care Lobby, designed to put visitors at ease as they support those undergoing eye surgery, was dedicated this spring.
“The Kellogg Eye Center is a world-renowned eye institute,
and the doctors, nurses, and administrators are first-in-class,” Mr. Shapiro says. “I am proud to be affiliated with the center
and am especially pleased with every detail of the lobby. It gives
sight every day,” says Paul P. Lee, M.D., J.D., F. Bruce Fralick
families and friends of patients a relaxing and comfortable
Professor and Chair of the department. “We are honored that
space in which to wait for their loved ones.”
the surgical care lobby is named for Mr. Shapiro, who is widely
recognized as someone who is dedicated to helping others.”
Each year, Kellogg’s faculty perform more than 8,000
“This is a very special place, where we are working to save
surgical procedures. The entire center was created to move
patients easily through check in, surgery preparation, procedures
organizations, and he served on the community advisory
and recovery. The lobby, which features comfortable furnishings
board for the Kellogg Eye Center’s successful capital expansion
and private consultation rooms, was conceived as a spacious
campaign.
Mr. Shapiro is actively involved in numerous charitable
and warm environment.
Upcoming CME Programs Each year, Kellogg offers an informative series of continuing medical education (CME) programs designed to share new approaches to the diagnosis and management of eye disease across subspecialties. These are our upcoming programs: Saturday, June 6, 2020 92nd Annual Spring Postgraduate Conference Plastics 8 a.m.– 5 p.m. Kellogg Eye Center Ann Arbor, Michigan
38
Thursday, June 19, 2020 36th Annual Research Day
For more information or to register for these programs, visit: www.umkelloggeye.org
Friday, September 11, 2020 Fall Alumni Day
For questions, contact Jennifer Burkheiser, CME Coordinator, at (734) 763-2357 or kelloggCME@umich.edu.
KELLOGG'S NEW FACULTY Maria Fernanda Abalem, M.D., M.Sc. Adjunct Assistant Professor Research Dr. Fernanda Abalem completed a surgical and medical retina fellowship at the University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil, and a postdoctoral fellowship in inherited retinal degenerations at Kellogg. She holds a dual appointment at both institutions. A retina specialist, her research focuses on applying gene therapy, artificial intelligence and telemedicine to retinal degenerations. Stephen Armenti, M.D., Ph.D. Clinical Lecturer, Chief Graduate Resident Comprehensive Ophthalmology Dr. Armenti’s clinical practice includes the evaluation and treatment of both complex and routine cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic eye disease. His research focuses on developing a new resident teaching curriculum, including improving anterior segment and trauma surgical education. April Maa, M.D. Adjunct Associate Professor Research Dr. Maa is an associate professor in the department of ophthalmology at Emory University School of Medicine. Dr. Maa is the clinical director of Technology-Based Eye Care Services (TECS), a novel telehealth program, which provides eye care in medically underserved areas. As an adjunct faculty member, Dr. Maa is collaborating with Kellogg colleagues to expand the program into select Michigan communities.
Nambi Nallasamy, M.D. Assistant Professor Cornea A graduate of Harvard Medical School, Dr. Nallasamy completed his ophthalmology residency at Duke University Eye Center, followed by a cornea, external disease and refractive surgery fellowship at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. An assistant professor of both ophthalmology and computational medicine and bioinformatics, Dr. Nallasamy combines clinical practice with research in applying machine learning to improve diagnostics and treatment planning. Karan H. Patel, M.D. Clinical Assistant Professor Comprehensive Ophthalmology Dr. Patel completed medical school at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine and an ophthalmology residency at the Kresge Eye Institute in Detroit. His clinical practice includes the evaluation and treatment of cataracts, astigmatism and presbyopia-correcting intraocular lenses, minimally invasive glaucoma surgery and diabetic eye disease. His research focuses on ophthalmic technologies and devices. Lev Prasov, M.D., Ph.D. Associate Professor Comprehensive Ophthalmology and Ophthalmic Genetics Dr. Prasov completed undergraduate, graduate, post-graduate, medical school and residency training at U-M, followed by fellowship training in ophthalmic genetics at the National Eye Institute. An NEI K12 scholar, his research focuses on the genetic basis of developmental ocular disorders and the development of novel therapies for these conditions.
Thérèse Sassalos, M.D. Clinical Assistant Professor Uveitis, Retina and Comprehensive Ophthalmology Dr. Sassalos completed a medical degree at U-M, an ophthalmology residency at Henry Ford Hospital and fellowships in both medical retina and uveitis at Kellogg. She is also an adjunct assistant professor at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. Thomas Wubben, M.D., Ph.D. Assistant Professor Retina Dr. Wubben earned medical and postgraduate degrees in biochemistry and molecular genetics from the University of Illinois at Chicago. His research explores the intersection of metabolism and cell survival in the retina to develop novel therapies for retinal disorders. Guan Xu, Ph.D. Assistant Professor Research Dr. Xu is part of a U-M team pioneering minimally invasive imaging that uses infrared light and ultrasound to reveal cellular and chemical information without a physical biopsy. After successfully imaging various organs in mice, his team is evaluating its potential to image structures and abnormalities in the eye. Jason Zhang, M.D. Clinical Assistant Professor Comprehensive, Glaucoma Dr. Zhang completed an ophthalmology residency at Yale New Haven Hospital, and a glaucoma fellowship at the University of Virginia. He sees glaucoma and comprehensive ophthalmology patients at Kellogg’s Huron River and Grand Blanc offices.
39
2019 FIRST-YEAR RESIDENTS Nicholas Carducci, M.D. B.S. – Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan M.D. – Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
Emily Chang, M.D. B.S. – Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley M.D. – Baylor College of Medicine
Asad Durrani, M.D. B.Sc. – Molecular and Cellular Biology, Economics, Johns Hopkins University M.D. – University of Pittsburgh
Michigan Alumnus Elected to the National Academy of Medicine
Tomás Meijome, M.D., M.S. B.S. – Biology, Purdue School of Science, Purdue University M.S. – Immunology, University of Pennsylvania M.D. – Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania
Anthony Adamis, M.D. (Residency, 1989) has been elected
to the National Academy of Medicine. Considered one of election to the Academy recognizes individuals who have
Chelsea Reighard, M.D., M.S. B.S. – Genetics, Language & International Health, Clemson University
demonstrated outstanding professional achievement and
M.S. – Education, Bank Street College of Education
commitment to service.
M.D. – University of Michigan School of Medicine
the highest honors in the fields of health and medicine,
Dr. Adamis is best known for co-discovering the key
role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in eye disease, and obtaining FDA approval for the first anti-VEGF drug in ophthalmology, which treats millions of people annually. Today, he is senior vice president of development innovation at Genentech, a biotechnology firm, member of the Roche Group, and a lecturer in ophthalmology at
Alexa Thibodeau, M.D. B.Sc. – Physiological Science, University of California, Los Angeles M.D. – Wayne State University School of Medicine
Harvard University Medical School.
“At Michigan, I was trained to ask how things work,
so I decided to try my hand at research,” Dr. Adamis told a Kellogg grand rounds audience in 2017, upon receiving the Michigan Medicine Alumni Society’s Distinguished Achievement Award. He credits U-M and Kellogg with providing “the kind of guidance and support that a very junior scientist can only wish for.”
40
Deonna Vaughn, M.D. B.A. – International Studies, University of Chicago M.D. – University of Illinois College of Medicine-Chicago
2019 GRADUATING RESIDENTS
Stephen T. Armenti, M.D., Ph.D. Graduate Chief Resident and Lecturer Kellogg Eye Center Ann Arbor, MI
Michael Jacob Huvard, M.D. Vitreoretinal Fellowship University of Colorado Aurora, CO
Jason M.L. Miller, M.D., Ph.D. Medical Retina and Research Fellowship Kellogg Eye Center Ann Arbor, MI
Tapan Pinakin Patel, M.D., Ph.D. Vitreoretinal Surgical Fellowship Johns Hopkins University Baltimore, MD
Nathan W.A. Liles, M.D., M.P.H. Pediatric Ophthalmology Fellowship Kellogg Eye Center Ann Arbor, MI
Peter Y. Zhao, M.D. Retinal Dystrophy Fellowship Kellogg Eye Center Ann Arbor, MI
2019 GRADUATING CLINICAL FELLOWS
Anthony J. Brune III, D.O. Neuro-Ophthalmology Institute for Neurosciences and Multiple Sclerosis Owosso, MI
Roman I. Krivochenitser, M.D. Glaucoma and Anterior Segment Surgery Colorado Eye Institute Colorado Springs, CO
Mary J. Lim, D.O. Pediatric Ophthalmology Helen Devos Childrens Hospital Grand Rapids, MI
Jennifer Ling, M.D. Corneal and Refractive Surgery and External Ocular Disease University of Iowa Iowa City, IA
Alexander Roland Miranda, M.D. Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus University of Wisconsin Madison, WI
Lorraine M. Provencher, M.D. Glaucoma and Anterior Segment Surgery Cincinnati Eye Institute Cincinnati, OH
Therese Sassalos, M.D. Medical Retina, Uveitis and Ocular Oncology Kellogg Eye Center Ann Arbor, MI
Honeylen Maryl Tiu Teo, M.D. Orbital and Ocular Oncology and Reconstructive Surgery St. Luke’s Medical Center Metro Manila, Philippines
Amy Ying Tong, M.D. Corneal and Refractive Surgery and External Ocular Disease EyeHealth Northwest, Portland, OR
Alexander Weiss, M.D. Medical Retina, Uveitis and Ocular Oncology New York City, NY
Thomas J Wubben, M.D., Ph.D. Surgical Retina, Uveitis, and Ocular Oncology Kellogg Eye Center Ann Arbor, MI
Emily M. Zepeda, M.D. Pediatric Ophthalmology University of Oklahoma Oklahoma City, OK
41
FACULTY HONORS AND RECOGNITION
Steven F. Abcouwer, Ph.D. Chief Editor, Journal of Ophthalmology Distinguished Reviewer Award, Scholarly Journals 2018, American Diabetes Association Editorial Board, American Journal of Physiology: Endocrinology and Metabolism Editorial Board, Journal of Diabetes Research Grant Reviewer, Anonymization Project, Center for Scientific Review Research Review, National Institutes of Health Grant Reviewer, Fellowship Review, Wellcome Trust DBT India Alliance Inductee, Academy of Distinguished Alumni, University of Missouri Chemical Engineering Institutes of Health Member, Commercial Relations Committee, Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology Study Section, Diseases and Pathophysiology of the Visual System, National Institutes of Health David A. Antonetti, Ph.D. Editorial Board, Diabetes Editorial Board, Tissue Barriers Brenda L. Bohnsack, M.D., Ph.D. Editorial Board, Journal of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Kari H. Branham, M.S., C.G.C. Scientific Advisory Board, Foundation Fighting Blindness Theresa M. Cooney, M.D. Best Doctors in America Castle Connolly Top Doctors President, Michigan Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons Monte A. Del Monte, M.D. Best Doctors in America Castle Connolly Top Doctors Invited International External Reviewer, Appointment and Promotion Committee, Ghana University Member, Advisory Board, Leadiant Cystaran Medical Member, Marshall M. Parks Lecture Selection Committee, American Academy of Ophthalmology Member, Miller International Travel Grant Selection Committee, American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus International Member, Scientific Advisory Board, Pediatric Ophthalmology Starter Grant Program, Knights Templar Eye Foundation President, Costenbader Pediatric Ophthalmology Society Section Head, Pediatric Ophthalmology, Eyewiki, American Academy of Ophthalmology Strabismus Consult Leader, Global Consult Bureau, World Society for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Vice Chair, Fellowship Directors Committee, American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus
42
JULY 1, 2018 — SEPTEMBER 30, 2019
Karen S. Deloss, O.D. Chair, Membership of Fellowship Committee, American Academy of Optometry Member, Advisory Board, Gas Permeable Lens Institute Joshua R. Ehrlich, M.D., M.P.H. Advisory Committee, Center for Vision and Population Health, Prevent Blindness Chair, AGS Cares Task Force, American Glaucoma Society Editorial Board, Ophthalmic Epidemiology Grant Reviewer, Special Emphasis Review Panel (ZRG1 BDCN-R), Immune System, Brain, and the Visual System, National Institutes of Health Grant Reviewer, Special Emphasis Review Panel, Glaucoma and Retinopathy: Biomarkers, Diagnostics and Translational Studies in Development and Aging, National Institutes of Health Lancet Commission, Global Eye Health Victor M. Elner, M.D., Ph.D. Richard Dortzback Lecture, Annual Meeting, North American Society of Academic Orbital Surgeons Jerome I. Finkelstein, M.D., F.A.C.S. Best Doctors in America Patrice E. Fort, Ph.D., M.S. Reviewer, ETTN-12 Small Business Study Section, National Institutes of Health Editorial Board, Journal of Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology Editorial Board, PlosOne Grant Review Committee, American Diabetes Association Guest Editor, Editorial Board, Frontiers in Genetics, Frontiers in Neuroscience Member, Scientific Sessions Retinopathy, American Diabetes Association Membership Committee, International Society for Eye Research Bruce A. Furr, C.O., Ph.D. Editorial Board, Journal of Binocular Vision and Ocular Motility Editorial Board, Journal of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Thomas W. Gardner, M.D., M.S. Associate Editor, Acta Ophthalmologica Castle Connolly Top Doctors Editorial Board, Clinical Diabetes and Endocrinology Editorial Board, Diabetes Care Program Chair, Diabetic Retinopathy, American Diabetes Association Research Advisory Board, Eye Research Institute for Transplantation and Research Mark W. Johnson, M.D. Associate Editor, American Journal of Ophthalmology Associate Examiner, American Board of Ophthalmology Best Doctors in America Castle Connolly Top Doctors
FACULTY HONORS AND RECOGNITION
Mark W. Johnson, M.D. (cont.) Daniel R. Martin, MD Distinguished Lecture, Cleveland Clinic Editorial Board, Retina Editorial Board, Retinal Physician Philip P. Ellis Lecture, University of Colorado School of Medicine The Retina Society: Chair, Awards Committee Chair, Nominating Committee Immediate Past President Program Committee The Macula Society: Credentials Committee Finance and Investment Committee Secretary Treasurer Alon Kahana, M.D., Ph.D. Best Doctors in America Board Member, Alumni Association, University of Wisconsin Ophthalmology Chair, Thesis Committee, American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Editorial Board, Ocular Surgery News Executive Committee Member, American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery President, North American Society of Academic Orbital Surgeons Program Director, American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Paul P. Lee, M.D., J.D. 1st Peterson Leadership Lecture, Cincinnati Eye Institute Advisory Board, Hoskins Center for Patient Safety and Quality Advisory Committee, JAMA Ophthalmology Board of Trustees, Society of Heed Fellows Chandler-Grant Lecture, New England Ophthalmological Society Meeting Doheny Memorial Lecture, UCLA Department of Ophthalmology Elected Member, National Academy of Medicine Heed-Gutman Award, Heed Ophthalmic Foundation Honorary Lecture, Women in Ophthalmology Honoree Lecture—Steve Obstbaum, M.D., Manhattan Glaucoma Symposium Member, Minority Ophthalmology Mentoring Executive Committee, American Academy of Ophthalmology Paul Sternberg Jr. Lecture, Vanderbilt University Medical Center President, National Alliance for Eye and Vision Research/Alliance for Eye and Vision Research Trustee-at-Large, Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology Shahzad Mian, M.D. Board of Directors, Cornea Society Board of Directors, Eversight Eye Bank Board of Directors, Eye Bank Association of America Castle Connolly Top Doctors Chair, Medical Advisory Committee, Eversight Eye Bank Editorial Board, Cornea
JULY 1, 2018 — SEPTEMBER 30, 2019
Shahzad Mian, M.D. (cont.) Guest Editor, Current Opinion in Ophthalmology Guest Editor, International Ophthalmology Clinics R. Townley Paton Award, Eye Bank Association of America Residency Review Committee, Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education Subspecialty Day Advisory Committee, Basic and Clinical Science Course Committee, American Academy of Ophthalmology Sayoko E. Moroi, M.D., Ph.D. 2020 Clinician Scientist Lecturer, American Glaucoma Society 39th Annual Robert N. Shaffer Glaucoma Lecture, American Academy of Ophthalmology David C. Musch, Ph.D., M.P.H. Advisory Group, US Project, Cochrane Collaboration Eyes and Vision Group Chair, Data & Safety Monitoring Boards: Aura Biosciences, Inc., Cambridge, MA (AU-011 for treatment of choroidal melanoma) Chengdu Kanghong Biotechnology Co., Ltd., China (Conbercept treatment for neovascular AMD) FLAME trial Treatment to Prevent Recurrence after Surgery for Trichiasis, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health Glaukos Corporation (iStent Supra for glaucoma treatment) InnFocus/Santen (MicroShunt for glaucoma treatment) Neurotech & MacTel Group (CNTF treatment for macular telangiectasia) Opthea, Ltd, Victoria, Australia (VEGF-C/D trap treatment for neovascular AMD) Refocus, Inc., Dallas, TX (scleral implant for presbyopia treatment) Consultant, Cornea Preferred Practice Pattern Guidelines Committee, American Academy of Ophthalmology Consultant, Preferred Practice Pattern – Cataract/Anterior Segment Panel, American Academy of Ophthalmology Consultant, Ophthalmic Technology Assessment Committee, American Academy of Ophthalmology Editorial Board, Eye and Vision Editorial Board, JAMA Ophthalmology Editorial Board, Retina Grant Reviewer, Medical Research Fund, United Kingdom Grant Reviewer, Research Grants Council, Hong Kong Member, Data & Safety Monitoring Committees: ADVISE uveitis treatment trial, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health Independent Data Monitoring Committee, Kodiak Sciences, Inc. META-MUST uveitis treatment trials, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health Intramural branch clinical trials, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health SCORE-2 trial, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health Methodologist, Ophthalmic Technology Assessment Committee, American Academy of Ophthalmology
43
FACULTY HONORS AND RECOGNITION
JULY 1, 2018 — SEPTEMBER 30, 2019
David C. Musch, Ph.D., M.P.H. (cont.) Methodologist, Preferred Practice Patterns Committee, American Academy of Ophthalmology Study Section, Special Emphasis Panel, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health
Therese M. Sassalos, M.D. Inductee, American Uveitis Society
Christine C. Nelson, M.D. Board of Directors, World Association of Eye Hospitals James A. Katowitz Pediatric Award, American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
Alan Sugar, M.D., M.S. Castroviejo Medal Lecture, Cornea Society Editor-in Chief, Journal of the Cornea Society, Cornea Grant Reviewer, California Stem Cell Agency, California Institute for Regenerative Medicine Grant Reviewer, National Medical Research Council of Singapore Research Committee, Medical Advisory Board, Eye Bank Association of America
Paula Anne Newman-Casey, M.D., M.S. Junior Member at Large, American Glaucoma Society Member, Glaucoma Subcommittee, Annual Meeting Program Committee, American Academy of Ophthalmology Yannis M. Paulus, M.D., F.A.C.S. Editorial Board, International Journal of Ophthalmic and Eye Science Editorial Board, International Journal of Ophthalmic Research Member, Retina Society Jillian N. Pearring, Ph.D. Co-Chair, Annual Conference, Michigan Society of Eye Physicians and Surgeons Editorial Board, International Journal of Ophthalmic and Eye Science Editorial Board, International Journal of Ophthalmic Research Executive Committee, Therapeutic Laser Applications, Technical Group, Optical Society of America Finance Committee, American Society of Retina Specialists Fundraising Committee, International Society for Eye Research US patent “Method and Apparatus for removing microvessels” Young Investigator Committee, International Society for Eye Research Howard R. Petty, Ph.D. Co-Chief Section Editor, Molecular Medicine, Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology Lev Prasov, M.D., Ph.D. Ad-hoc Grant Reviewer, Wellcome Trust Lead Guest Editor, Special Issue, Genetics in Ophthalmology, Journal of Ophthalmology Donald G. Puro, M.D., Ph.D. Best Doctors in America Castle Connolly Top Doctors Elected Fellow, American Association for the Advancement of Science Rajesh C. Rao, M.D. Member, Study Section, Special Emphasis Panel, Center for Scientific Review, National Institutes of Health Editor, Social Media, Ophthalmology Editor, Social Media, Ophthalmology Retina Grant Reviewer, Neurosciences and Mental Health Board, Medical Research Council Member, Clinical Translation Committee, International Society for Stem Cell Research
44
H. Kaz Soong, M.D. Assistant Editor, Cornea
Bradford L. Tannen, M.D., J.D., M.B.A. Associate Editor, Case Reports, American Journal of Ophthalmology Editor, Journal of Ocular Biology Debra A. Thompson, Ph.D. Member, Advisory Board, Foundation Fighting Blindness Sara L. Weidmayer, O.D., F.A.A.O. Editorial Board, Review of Optometry Regional Vice-Chair, Admittance Committee, American Academy of Optometry Secretary, Michigan Foundation for Vision Awareness James Weiland, Ph.D. Vice-President Conferences, Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society Jennifer S. Weizer, M.D. Best Doctors in America Kwoon Y. Wong, Ph.D. Editorial Board, Current Eye Research Grant Reviewer, Fight for Sight (UK) Study Section, Special Emphasis Panel, Vision Imaging, Bioengineering and Low Vision, National Institutes of Health Technology Development, National Institutes of Health Maria A. Woodward, M.D., M.S. Member, Study Section, National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health Chair, Eye Bank Association of America Editorial Board, Survey of Ophthalmology Grant Reviewer, Eye Bank Association of America Health Policy Leadership Development Fellowship, Cornea Society Rebecca A. Wu, M.D. Castle Connolly Top Doctors
2019 KELLOGG EYE CENTER FACULTY, RESIDENTS AND FELLOWS
Faculty of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences Steven F. Abcouwer, Ph.D. Robin Ali Ph.D., FMedSci David A. Antonetti, Ph.D. Steven M. Archer, M.D. Bernadete Ayres, M.D. Cagri G. Besirli, M.D., Ph.D. Jill E. Bixler, M.D. Brenda L. Bohnsack, M.D., Ph.D. Kari E. Branham, M.S., C.G.C. Coye Carver, M.D. Kuen-Ren (Roland) Chen, Ph.D. Grant M. Comer, M.D., M.S. Theresa M. Cooney, M.D. Wayne T. Cornblath, M.D. Sherry H. Day, O.D. Lindsey B. De Lott, M.D., M.S. Monte A. Del Monte, M.D. Karen S. DeLoss, O.D. Hakan Demirci, M.D. Laxmi V. Devisetty, M.D. Courtney A. Dewey, O.D. Joshua R. Ehrlich, M.D., M.P.H. Angela R. Elam, M.D. Susan G. Elner, M.D. Victor M. Elner, M.D., Ph.D. Abigail T. Fahim, M.D., Ph.D. Cherie A. Farkash, O.D. Jerome I. Finkelstein, M.D. Patrice E. Fort, Ph.D., M.S. Carlton J. Foster, O.D. Bruce A. Furr, C.O., Ph.D. Philip J. Gage, Ph.D. Samantha Gagnon, O.D. Christopher Gappy, M.D. Thomas W. Gardner, M.D., M.S. Paul J. Grenier, O.D. Peter F. Hitchcock, Ph.D. Christopher T. Hood, M.D. Bret A. Hughes, Ph.D. Diane M. Jacobi, O.D. K. Thiran Jayasundera, M.D., M.S. Vanitha I. Jeyaraj, M.D. Denise A. John, M.D. Mark W. Johnson, M.D. Shannon S. Joseph, M.D., M.Sc Alon Kahana, M.D., Ph.D. Shivani S. Kamat, M.D. Ariane D. Kaplan, M.D. Harjeet Kaur, M.D. Naheed W. Khan, Ph.D. Denise S. Kim, M.D. Zvi Kresch, M.D. Amy L. Lagina, O.D. Scott Lawrence, M.D. Paul P. Lee, M.D., J.D. Helios T. Leung, O.D., Ph.D. Paul R. Lichter, M.D., M.S. Philip Lieu, M.D.
Cheng-mao Lin, Ph.D. Xuwen Liu, M.D., Ph.D. April Maa, M.D. Michael Mandell, M.D. Shahzad I. Mian, M.D. Sayoko E. Moroi, M.D., Ph.D. David C. Musch, Ph.D., M.P.H. Matthew A. Mc Kee, M.D. Mikiko Nagashima, Ph.D. Nambi Nallasamy, M.D. Christine C. Nelson, M.D. Paula Anne Newman-Casey, M.D., M.S. Karan Patel, M.D. Yannis M. Paulus, M.D. Jillian N. Pearring, Ph.D. Howard R. Petty, Ph.D. Shreya S. Prabhu, M.D. Lev Prasov, M.D., Ph.D. Donald G. Puro, M.D., Ph.D. Rajesh C. Rao, M.D. Alan L. Robin, M.D. Julie M. Rosenthal, M.D., M.S. Frank W. Rozsa, Ph.D. Gary S. Sandall, M.D. Therese Sassalos, M.D. Jill Schafer, O.D. Traci Seng, O.D. Anjali Shah, M.D. Manjool Shah, M.D. Roni M. Shtein, M.D., M.S. Frank Sloan, Ph.D. Terry J. Smith, M.D. Michael W. Smith-Wheelock, M.D. H. Kaz Soong, M.D. William Sray, M.D. Joshua D. Stein, M.D., M.S. Jeffrey Stern, M.D., Ph.D. Alan Sugar, M.D. Jeffrey M. Sundstrom, M.D., Ph.D. Bradford L. Tannen, M.D., J.D., M.B.A. Sally Temple, Ph.D. Debra A. Thompson, Ph.D. Jonathan D. Trobe, M.D. Grace M. Wang, M.D., Ph.D. Sara Weidmayer, O.D. James Weiland, Ph.D. Jennifer S. Weizer, M.D. Adrienne L. West, M.D. Donna M. Wicker, O.D. Kwoon Y. Wong, Ph.D. Sarah D. Wood, O.D., M.S. Maria A. Woodward, M.D., M.S. Rebecca A. Wu, M.D. Thomas Wubben, M.D., Ph.D. Gary Xu, Ph.D. David N. Zacks, M.D., Ph.D. Amy Zhang, M.D. Jason Zhang, M.D.
All of us at the Kellogg Eye Center are committed to improving lives through curing, preventing and treating eye disease. Our guiding principles are teamwork, caring, innovation and integrity.
Executive Officers of Michigan Medicine Marschall S. Runge, M.D., Ph.D. Executive vice president for medical affairs, dean University of Michigan Medical School, C.E.O., Michigan Medicine David A. Spahlinger, M.D. President, Michigan Medicine, and executive vice dean for clinical affairs University of Michigan Medical School Patricia D. Hurn, Ph.D. Dean, School of Nursing The Regents of the University of Michigan Jordan B. Acker, Michael J. Behm, Mark J. Bernstein, Paul W. Brown, Shauna Ryder Diggs, Denise Ilitch, Ron Weiser, Katherine E. White, Mark S. Schlissel (ex officio) Annual Report Team Editors: Julie Rosenthal, M.D., M.S., Christopher Gappy, M.D., Annie Hauser Writers: MargaretAnn Cross, Shelley Zalewski Editorial Assistant: Sara Reynolds Design and Art Direction: David Murrel Photographers: Michigan Photography: Eric Bronson, Daryl Marshke, Scott Soderberg, Austin Thomason; Lon Horwedel Photography: Lon Horwedel; Lesia Thompson Photography: Lesia Thompson; Abbie Buhr Photography: Abbie Buhr; Department of Communication: Camren Clouthier
FOR PATIENT APPOINTMENTS, PLEASE CALL 734.763.8122 For additional copies, please contact us: University of Michigan Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences W.K. Kellogg Eye Center 1000 Wall Street Ann Arbor, Michigan 48105 www.umkelloggeye.org
TEAMWORK INTEGRITY INNOVATION CARING
University of Michigan W.K. Kellogg Eye Center Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences 1000 Wall Street Ann Arbor, MI 48105
Kellogg Among Nation’s Best in Eye Care #
8
OPHTHALMOLOGY IN THE NATION
The University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center is proud to be ranked among the best in the nation for eye care. This outstanding achievement recognizes Kellogg's commitment to caring for patients with complex eye conditions and to researching new ways to prevent vision loss and save sight. Since 1872, our Kellogg family has worked together to shape the future of eye care and vision science.
~ Our Purpose ~ To improve lives through curing, preventing and treating eye disease 2019 U.S. NEWS & WORLD REPORT’S “BEST HOSPITALS”