Sooner or later, research into the preservation of sight and the prevention of blindness could touch the lives of the majority of people in our country. Research institutions face the challenge of translating their findings into daily patient care and preventive education. Since its founding in 1947, Doheny Eye Institute has maintained an integrated approach to vision research, education and patient care.

Over the last decade, Doheny has systematically upgraded its patient care resources and enhanced its extensive and highly regarded vision research and education programs. Now Doheny is continuing to enlarge its basic research component.

Areas of Major Research

• Retinal and macular degeneration research through the study of retinal pigment epithelium, retinal cell transplantation, molecular genetics of inherited diseases of the retina and gene therapy for retinal disorders;
• Modification of corneal shape and morphology through corneal research and refractive surgery innovations; and
• Optic nerve regeneration.
  

The rationale for further expansion and development of these programs is primarily related to anticipation of the major clinical problems that confront the field of ophthalmology over the next decade -- particularly in Southern California -- and to Doheny's own areas of strength and expertise as well as its ability to address these problems as an eye research institute.

Advances in molecular biology, genetics, pathology, virology and immulology are being applied to the treatment of eye diseases and disorders. The foundation of the Doheny vision research process begins in laboratories where scientists explore the molecular changes that occur in ocular disease. Doheny researchers continue their daily drive to find the causes of vision disorders and to discover the cures.