A researcher at the University of Houston is developing new techniques to map the structural integrity of the human cornea. The project is aimed at discovering more effective therapies for degenerative corneal disease. Kirill Larin, professor of biomedical engineering at UH, is building upon his previous work that established proof-of-concept for the corneal imaging and analysis.
Larin employs high-resolution imaging and mechanical mapping of the cornea and can gauge the structural integrity of corneal tissue. This technique could also allow ophthalmic surgeons to test for early stage corneal degeneration before performing LASIK surgery to correct near-sightedness. The project’s future plans include expanding the technique to target the structure of the retina, which may open doors to developing better treatments for glaucoma, as well as, other mechanisms to understanding changes in vision.
Source: Agencies
