October 2023

Research Progress - scientists in the laboratory

Research Progress: Catalyst for a Cure

Catalyst for a Cure (CFC) is Glaucoma Research Foundation’s flagship research program. We are currently funding two CFC research teams.

CFC3: The Steven and Michele Kirsch Catalyst for a Cure Vision Restoration Initiative is seeking innovative ways to regrow or replace retinal ganglion cells and axons, which make up the optic nerve. The principal investigators are Xin Duan, PhD (UC San Francisco), Yang Hu, MD, PhD (Stanford University), Anna La Torre, PhD (UC Davis), and Derek Welsbie, MD, PhD (UC San Diego).

CFC4: The Melza M. and Frank Theodore Barr Foundation Catalyst for a Cure Initiative to Prevent and Cure Neurodegeneration began their investigations in 2022. The principal investigators are Sandro Da Mesquita, PhD (Mayo Clinic), Milica Margeta, MD, PhD (Mass Eye and Ear), Karthik Shekhar, PhD (UC Berkeley), and Humsa Venkatesh, PhD (Harvard Medical School).

The CFC3 Vision Restoration team is pursuing three major goals: 1) develop neuroprotective therapies to halt the progression of vision loss from glaucoma, 2) develop strategies for visual restoration using cell transplantation to replace lost optic nerve cells, and 3) reconnect the eye to the brain to restore visual functions to improve the function of injured optic nerve cells.

In the past year, the CFC3 team has made significant progress on multiple fronts. They have advanced the field of neuroprotection, made important progress with cell replacement research, and identified several exciting candidate targets to improve optic nerve cell survival — all essential next steps that are laying a foundation for vision restoration.

The Role of Genetics in Glaucoma Diagnosis and Treatment: Now and in the Future — Janey L. Wiggs, MD, PhD

Register to join us for a free virtual event... The 2023 Weston Family Lecture will feature Janey L. Wiggs, MD, PhD, Chandler Professor of Ophthalmology and Vice Chair for Clinical Research in Ophthalmology at Harvard Medical School and the Massachusetts Eye and Ear. The Weston Family Lectureship was established in 2007 with a grant from Gladys and George Weston, DDS, in memory of their son Daniel. Each year the lectureship showcases a clinician or scientist whose work is significantly advancing our knowledge of glaucoma, particularly in new therapies and progress toward a cure. Moderated by Thomas M. Brunner, President and CEO, Glaucoma Research in San Francisco, CA.

DATE: Thursday, October 26, 2023
TIME: 1:00 PM Pacific Time
(2:00 PM Mountain Time)
(3:00 PM Central Time)
(4:00 PM Eastern Time)

Register Now

From the Blog:
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams to Detect Glaucoma
Reviewed by Ruth Williams, MD

Eyesight is an incredibly precious gift that profoundly impacts our daily existence and connection with the world. It’s not just about being able to see; it’s about experiencing life to its fullest. Our eyes allow us to enjoy a vibrant sunset, read facial expressions, and navigate the world easily and confidently. Our vision makes simple joys possible, like reading books or admiring art. It also affects our safety and independence.

Unfortunately, the struggles associated with poor vision or vision loss are profound, affecting a person’s ability to perform daily tasks and limiting their social interactions and overall quality of life. It’s vital to prioritize our eye health and seek regular eye examinations to prevent any issue that could rob us of our cherished eyesight.

Accelerate Discoveries with Your Generous Gift.

Your gift today will support sight-saving research and provide essential educational resources for glaucoma patients. With your help, the cure is in sight.

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