Current Primary Areas of Research
Neuroprotective Retinal Lipoxin Circuit: Homeostatic Role & Therapeutic Potential
The lipoxin circuit is an important paracrine signaling mechanism to maintain neuronal homeostasis and protect the retina, specifically ganglion cells, against neurodegeneration. We are investigating this astrocyte-neuroprotective network to define its dynamic regulation and mechanisms of action with neuronal cells and explore the efficacy of amplifying the lipoxin circuit as a therapeutic approach for glaucoma.
Lipid Mediators Programs: Regulators of Innate & Adaptive Immune Responses
Resident lipid mediator programs in the ocular surface, lymph nodes and retina control both the initiation and amplitude of acute inflammation and the functional response of lymphocytes for initiating adaptive immunity. We are investigating 1) the sex-specific regulation of lipid mediator programs as a potential cause for the high prevalence of autoimmune diseases in women, 2) role of immune-regulatory PMN phenotypes as a primary source of protective lipid mediators and regulators of lymphocyte function, 3) essential role of ω-3 PUFAs in maintaining and amplifying intrinsic protective lipid mediator programs and 4) the function and dysregulation of lipid mediator networks during “Inflammaging”.