ARVO Annual Meeting

New tools and methodologies for ocular genetics: Promises and challenges

Cross-Sectional Group Session
May 7; 1:30-3:00pm

Eric Pierce, MD, PhD

Over the years, genomic research has relied on several technologies to uncover the genetic basis, functional aspects, and genomic mysteries associated with many of the complex and Mendelian ocular diseases.

Using examples of different ocular diseases, this session detailed some of the successes and challenges associated with some of the contemporary “omic” methods (e.g., whole genome sequencing and RNA sequencing) and bioinformatics/computational tools.

The session also covered systems biology approaches for integrating multiple data sets to elucidate gene regulatory or disease networks.

Addressing global blindness and eye diseases through research collaborations

Workshop
May 7, 1:30-3:00pm

Janey Wiggs, MD, PhD

As much as 90 Percent of the global burden of eye disease is shouldered by developing countries, where many treatable diseases often go undiagnosed. Eighty percent of blindness is considered preventable; however a comprehensive research strategy and international reserach collaborations between the developed and developing world need to increase. Many areas of the world require a coordinated strategy for basic science and health services research in order to reduce the global burden of eye diseases.

This ARVO session stimulated discussion and addressed current challenges, strategies, and collaborative studies related to eye diseases.

Mildred Weisenfeld Award for Excellence in Ophthalmology

May 7, 645-7:30pm

Alumna Johanna Seddon, MD, discussed macular degeneration epidemiology and risk factors. Dr. Seddon completed her Ophthalmic Pathology and Vitreoretinal fellowships at Harvard Ophthalmology/Mass. Eye and Ear. Currently, she is Professor and Founding Director of the Ophthalmic Epidemiology and Genetics Service at Tufts University and a former trustee and vice-president of ARVO.

The global problem of antibiotic resistance: Impact on ocular health worldwide and researching alternatives

Symposium
May 11, 8:30-10:30am

Michael Gilmore, PhD

Antibiotic resistance has been steadily rising worldwide, despite newer classes of antibiotics being developed. This problem impacts those with any predisposing condition or those undergoing ocular surgery. 

This symposium discussed the current epidemiological trends in resistance worldwide and highlight novel and alternative research strategies that aim to circumvent the problem of antibiotic resistance.

This symposium was designed for clinicians and basic scientists who are interested in ocular surface and intraocular infections, systemic conditions (e.g., diabetes and immunodeficiencies that predispose patients to ocular infection), and complications arising from ocular surgery.

Women in Eye and Vision Research Luncheon

May 9, 1:00-2:30pm
Hilton Baltimore

This event provided an opportunity to network with more than 300 ARVO attendees over lunch. Prominent scientists from around the world were invited as guest speakers to share their experiences. Janine Austin Clayton, MD, Director of the Office of Research on Women’s Health at the National Institutes of Health, delivered the keynote presentation. While the luncheon program supports women in eye and vision research, both male and female attendees were welcome.