Home Department: Biology

2022 Research Project: “Investigating SPACKL and Corneal Healing ex vivo”

2022 Mentor: David Myung (Ophthalmology)

Since 2016, an estimated 12.7 million people worldwide are awaiting corneal transplantation; yet only 1 in 70 patients have access to a sight-saving corneal transplant. Using Sutureless, Photoactivated, Additive Collagen gel KeratopLasty (SPACKL), the Myung lab can stabilize and heal/restore an acutely-injured cornea without requiring invasive transplantation. Their project has two aims: (1) to evaluate SPACKL when sealing corneal defects against commercially-available sealant - by measuring intraocular pressure required to gape treated wounds on pig eyeballs using an infusion pump and manometer and (2) to assess wound healing using a rabbit organ culture model. Their results will provide insight into how effective SPACKL is in treating injured corneas.
 

2023 Research Project: "In vivo Corneal Regeneration with SPACKL and Hyaluronic Acid"

2023 Mentor: David Myung (Ophthalmology)

Corneal blindness affects over 12.7 million people worldwide, but only 1 in 70 patients can access a sight-saving corneal transplant. In this project, the Myung lab team will use a rabbit model to test the efficacy of a non-invasive corneal transplantation known as Sutureless, Photoactivated, Additive Collagen gel KeratopLasty (SPACKL) in combination with hyaluronic acid in promoting corneal regeneration. If their hydrogel demonstrates effective corneal healing, they will be a step closer to improving access to corneal treatment around the world.