Academic Medical Institutions Like the HMS Department of Ophthalmology

“Academic medical institutions like the HMS Department of Ophthalmology attract an intellectually curious faculty—individuals who push the boundaries of medicine and science in their often tenacious pursuit of answers.” —Janey Wiggs, MD, PhD, Associate Director of the Howe Laboratory, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary

E A R C > R E S H > T L E A C I C A H I N I N L G C > > C L G I I N PARTNERS N H I C C A A L E T >

> R E H S C E A R R A AFFILIATES C E H S Children’s E Hospital Boston > R Aravind Eye Togus VA

Hospital (India) (Maine) T > Massachusetts E L Veterans Affairs Boston A Eye and Ear Infirmary A Healthcare System C

C H

N N

Beth Israel Deaconess Schepens Eye

> Harvard Medical School C

Medical Center Research Institute

Department of Ophthalmology L

Massachusetts Joslin Diabetes L A

E General Hospital Center/Beetham Eye

T Institute

Brigham and E

H Women’s Hospital

A L

A Shanghai Eye and ENT Hospital H

N N

I I

A C

R > E

S H E C A R 8 PEOPLE HMS Ophthalmology historic milestones & & PARTNER 1869 Henry Willard Williams, AM, MD, presents at HMS the S first course of lectures ever given in an American medical school by an ophthalmologist. Two years later, he is appointed to Professor of Oph- thalmology, marking the formal establishment of the HMS Depart-

ment of Ophthalmology in 1871.

Harvard Medical School Department of Ophthalmology 1891 Williams’ successor, Oliver Fairfield Wadsworth, AM, The Harvard Medical School (HMS) Department of Ophthalmology is one of MD, joins the staff of the Massachusetts Charitable Eye & Ear Infir- mary (established in 1824). Soon after, the hospital becomes the hub of the leading and largest academic departments of ophthalmology in the nation. Harvard’s ophthalmic training. Formally established in 1871, the department has been built upon a strong and rich foundation in medical education, research, and clinical care. Through the 1891 Benjamin Joy Jeffries, AM, MD, establishes one of the years, HMS faculty and alumni have profoundly influenced ophthalmic science, first ophthalmic pathology laboratories in the U.S., at Mass. Eye and Ear. In 1982, the lab is dedicated to renowned HMS ophthalmologist medicine, and literature—helping to transform the field of ophthalmology from and alumnus, David G. Cogan, MD. a branch of surgery into an independent medical specialty at the forefront of science. Today, the department continues its legacy as one of the finest aca- 1926 Frederick H. Verhoeff, MD, HMS Professor of Ophthal- demic medical institutions in the world—teaching and mentoring future lead- mology and Mass. Eye and Ear’s first full-time researcher and patholo- gist, establishes the first endowed ophthalmic research unit, the Howe ers, turning laboratory insight into cures, and bringing the fruits of its labors to Laboratory, at Mass. Eye and Ear. patients’ bedsides. 1949 The world’s first retina service, and first retinal disease HMS’s unique architecture Formula for success fellowship, is established at Mass. Eye and Ear by famed HMS retinal Since its inception, the department has evolved into Though administratively complex, the depart- pioneer and innovator, Charles L. Schepens, MD. Dr. Schepens is also

an academic institution with a multi-institutional ment’s network structure has proven highly success- School Medical Harvard Photo: credited with establishing the vitreoretinal subspecialty. structure and a broad base of clinicians and scientists. ful for a variety of reasons. Affiliates and partners are This decentralized structure is unique among other firmly united in their commitment to educational U.S. academic medical schools, which are typically in- excellence. Stimulating residency and fellowship 1958 Claes H. Dohlman, MD, PhD, considered to be the tegrated—physically and financially—into their affili- opportunities abound throughout the HMS network— founder of modern corneal science, establishes the world’s first orga- ated universities. Unlike other medical schools, HMS offering broad clinical and surgical exposure, as well nized cornea subspecialty, and the first structured cornea fellowship does not own a teaching hospital; instead, the school as rewarding mentorship opportunities, to the faculty program at Mass. Eye and Ear. comprises a network of formal hospital and research and trainees. The collaborative environment also sup- affiliations that provide the teaching, training, and ports a wide array of preclinical and clinical research, research facilities for medical and graduate education. and inspires robust scientific partnerships among 1966 Deborah Pavan-Langston, MD becomes the first Through a system of faculty titles and cross-appoint- divergent yet complementary research programs; woman to be accepted into the HMS Ophthalmology residency pro- ments, the hospitals and the school are closely linked. these unified efforts have led to landmark advances gram. Unlike her male colleagues, Dr. Langston is required to complete The HMS Department of Ophthalmology is com- in patient care, many of which are highlighted in this a two-year pre-residency fellowship. In 1973, she is appointed the prised of 140 full-time faculty members who carry out report. Collectively, the broad clinical expertise and first woman director of Mass. Eye and Ear’s Cornea and External the majority of the department’s teaching, research, deep fund of knowledge allows the Department of Disease Service. and patient care activities. An additional 95 faculty Ophthalmology to provide sophisticated diagnostic members (mostly private practitioners) hold part- and therapeutic care for patients, thus ensuring the time HMS faculty appointments in ophthalmology best possible outcomes. 1974 The Berman-Gund Laboratory for the Study of Retinal and participate in various academic endeavors of the The Department of Ophthalmology also whole- Degenerations formally opens. The laboratory was conceived as a department. heartedly embraces the vast diversity of the HMS multi-disciplined research effort between Mass. Eye and Ear and Throughout the years, the department’s ophthal- community, which forms the intellectual backbone of Harvard with the goal of understanding the disease mechanisms mic network has grown in both scope and intellect. the department. Students and faculty, who represent involved in retinitis pigmentosa and the more than 30 related diseases The department has recruited some of the finest clini- a myriad of geographical and cultural backgrounds, that affect the retina. cian scientists in ophthalmology, and established key and are selected based on their accomplishments and affiliations with many of the world’s leading academic future potential. Women represent 45 percent of the medical schools and research institutions. These affili- full-time faculty, and fill numerous senior-level posi- 2003 Joan W. Miller, MD, is named Chair of the HMS ations have added significant depth and breadth to the tions within the department, including Chair. In no Department of Ophthalmology and Chief of Ophthalmology at Mass. department’s core capabilities, and have created a rich small way, the cultural and academic diversity of the Eye and Ear. She is the first woman to hold this dual role. and robust infrastructure steeped in multidisciplinary HMS community prepares the students and faculty investigations, educational collaborations, and clini- to lead with fresh vision and purpose as they take on cal enterprises. the challenges of an increasingly global healthcare environment. 11 PEOPLE & & PARTNER

HMS OPHTHALMOLOGY VICE CHAIRS S vice c vice h

training experience for residents. This invigorated air

John I. Loewenstein, MD curriculum includes faculty-proctored wet labs in cata- s ract surgery, retinal surgery, glaucoma surgery, cornea surgery, and oculoplastics surgery. A step-wise introduc- Vice Chair for Medical Education, Department of tion to phacoemulsification (cataract surgery) boosts Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School cognitive learning and reduces resident stress, and Associate Professor of Ophthalmology, Harvard a state-of-the-art virtual reality eye surgery simulator Medical School enables residents to practice and hone their Director, Department of Ophthalmology Residency surgical skills. Training Program, Harvard Medical School In 2008, Dr. Loewenstein was appointed Vice Chair for Associate Chief for Graduate Medical Education and Medical Education. In this expanded educational role, he Associate Clinical Chief of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts continues to cultivate and fine-tune the HMS Residency Eye and Ear Infirmary Program and works closely with the Fellowship Commit- tee Chair to coordinate fellowships across HMS affiliate A graduate of Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dr. sites. He also collaborates with the Director of Medi- John Loewenstein received his medical degree from the cal Student Education and the Vice Chair of Academic State University of New York at Buffalo and completed Programs to identify new educational initiatives and his ophthalmology residency at Boston University (BU) program improvements. Since becoming Vice Chair, he School of Medicine. This was followed by a two-year has pursued a strategic vision that ensures a cohesive, clinical and research fellowship at BU. He initially joined challenging, and inspiring experience for students at the HMS Department of Ophthalmology as a part-time every level of their medical education. member of the Retina Service at Mass. Eye and Ear Dr. Loewenstein has pioneered revolutionary teach- while continuing to practice privately in the Boston area. ing tools to improve surgical competency in ophthalmol- After a decade, he missed teaching and the academic ogy. Beginning in 2003, he collaborated with colleagues environment, and in 1994, was invited to join Mass. Eye and experts in cognitive psychology, computer program- and Ear/HMS as a full-time faculty member of the Retina ming and ophthalmology to develop an interactive, com- Service. He quickly became an integral part of the train- puter program for teaching the complex art of cataract ing program for medical students, residents, and fellows. surgery. This virtual surgical tool, called the Mass. Eye In 1996 and 2001, Dr. Loewenstein earned high acco- and Ear Cataract Surgery Mentor, allows residents to lades from HMS ophthalmology residents who honored gain critical cognitive skills in a safe, forgiving environ- him as Teacher of the Year. He was also a 2007 nominee ment and eliminates risk to patients. So far, eight of 10 for the HMS Prize for Excellence in Teaching. In 2002, modules on phacoemulsification have been completed. with the vigorous support and unanimous approval Current efforts focus on developing the remaining mod- from residents and administration alike, Dr. Loewenstein ules and establishing licensing agreements to distribute was named Director of the Residency Program. A gifted the program to residents nationwide. teacher, clinician, surgeon, and manager, Dr. Loewen- Dr. Loewenstein’s newest initiative in resident edu- stein has used his exceptional abilities to enhance the cation development is a formal study of the effect of residency program in numerous ways. He has modified trainee fatigue on surgical learning. Working with Drs. and streamlined residency rotations to improve continu- Carolyn Kloek, James Gordon, Director of the Gilbert ity of experience, and to maximize clinical and surgical Program in Medical Simulation at HMS, and Charles teaching. He has collaborated with colleagues at the Czeisler, Stephen Lockley, and Brian Abaluck from Boston Veterans Administration Hospital to enhance the the sleep medicine program at HMS and Brigham and resident experience, and strengthened communication Women’s Hospital, he is evaluating retention of surgi- and feedback among HMS’ affiliated teaching hospi- cal learning in rested and sleep-deprived states using a tals. He is also a strong advocate of achieving prog- commercial, virtual reality eye surgery simulator. He is ress through collaboration; in this regard, he chairs a also developing a computer-based training tool to teach biweekly Residency Steering Committee meeting, which residents, fellows, and practicing ophthalmologists provides residents and faculty with a forum where they how to screen for retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a may address concerns and brainstorm about continuous disease that can cause premature infants to go blind. For improvements to the program. this effort, he is collaborating closely with Dr. Rodrigo Together with Associate Residency Program Direc- Alvarez and other clinicians who have expertise in ROP, tor, Carolyn Kloek, MD, Dr. Loewenstein has created a and leveraging the techniques used to develop the Mass. structured surgical curriculum that enhances the overall Eye and Ear Cataract Surgery Mentor. 13 PEOPLE & & PARTNER S VICE

C H

laboratory research, Dr. Dana has served on the Cornea AIR

Reza Dana, MD, MPH, MSc and Refractive Surgery Service of Mass. Eye and Ear S since 1996. Vice Chair for Academic Programs, Department of In 2005, Dr. Dana earned his MSc degree in Health Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School Care Management from Harvard University; this, complemented by his scientific and clinical expertise, Claes H. Dohlman Professor of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School gives Dr. Dana a unique capacity for leadership. As Director of the Cornea and Refractive Surgery Service at Associate Chief for Academic Programs and Director of Mass. Eye and Ear, a position he has held since 2006, Dr. Cornea and Refractive Surgery Service, Massachusetts Dana leads the world’s largest and most esteemed group Eye and Ear Infirmary of clinician-scientists dedicated to cornea research and Co-Director of Research, Senior Scientist, and W. Clement treatment. Dr. Dana became Vice Chairman of Academic Stone Scholar, Schepens Eye Research Institute Programs in the Department of Ophthalmology at HMS in 2008, and was named Co-Director of Research Dr. Reza Dana is a leading international expert in corneal at Schepens in 2009. With leadership appointments and ocular inflammation, and his studies have greatly at both Mass. Eye and Ear and Schepens, Dr. Dana has elucidated the cellular and molecular mechanisms of promoted collaborative efforts in translational research ocular surface biology. Dr. Dana has made substantial between the two institutions. Committed to the ad- contributions to the bodies of knowledge in both basic vancement of clinician scientists, Dr. Dana is a Principal science and clinical research. Investigator of the Harvard Vision Clinical Scientist De- After receiving college-preparatory education at St. velopment Program funded by the NIH, and has helped Paul’s School in Concord, New Hampshire, Reza Dana provide unparalleled training opportunities for junior pursued his baccalaureate degree at Johns Hopkins investigators. University School of Arts and Sciences, where he was In addition to publishing numerous original research elected to Phi Beta Kappa. Dr. Dana continued his articles in top-tier scientific journals such as Nature postgraduate training at Johns Hopkins, where he Medicine, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sci- received both his MPH and MD degrees. He performed ences, and Journal of Clinical Investigation, Dr. Dana is his residency in ophthalmology at the Illinois Eye and Ear dedicated to the dissemination of scientific knowledge. Infirmary in Chicago, followed by a clinical fellowship He serves on the editorial board of journals such as in cornea and external diseases at Wills Eye Hospital in Cornea, Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Sci- Philadelphia. Dr. Dana then received additional fellow- ence, Ophthalmologica, and The Ocular Surface. He has ship training in immunology and uveitis at Mass. Eye and served as Editor of the Eye and Systemic Disease volume Ear, and in ocular immunology and transplantation at of The Principles and Practice of Ophthalmology, and as Schepens Eye Research Institute. Senior Editor of The Encyclopedia of the Eye, published Dr. Dana was appointed Instructor in the Department in 2010 by Elsevier. of Ophthalmology at HMS in 1995; he ascended to the Dr. Dana has delivered more than 120 invited and rank of Assistant Professor in 1997, Associate Profes- named lectures, and has been the recipient of multiple sor in 2000, and Professor and Claes Dohlman Chair awards, including the William and Mary Greve Special in Ophthalmology in 2007. At Schepens, Dr. Dana was Scholar Award and the Physician-Scientist Merit Award appointed as Associate Scientist in 2000, the W. Clem- from Research to Prevent Blindness (RPB). In 2009, he ent Stone Scholar in 2002, and Senior Scientist in 2004. was honored with the Lew R. Wasserman Award from With numerous ongoing projects in his laboratory and RPB. Dr. Dana’s honors also include the Achievement multiple collaborations with other researchers, Dr. Dana Award of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, is rapidly expanding his list of scientific accomplishments the Cogan Award of the Association for Research in and publications—with over 270 publications, including Vision and Ophthalmology, and the Alcon Research 175 peer-reviewed articles to date. In addition to leading Institute Award. 15 PEOPLE & & PARTNER S

Research in 2002, and assumed the role of Co-Director Patricia D’Amore, PhD, MBA of Research in 2009. In 2008, Dr. D’Amore became HMS Ophthalmology Vice Chair of Basic Research. Vice Chair for Basic Research, Department of Over 50 predoctoral students and postdoctoral Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School fellows have benefitted from the outstanding teaching and thoughtful mentorship of Dr. D’Amore. At HMS, Dr. Professor of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School D’Amore serves on numerous committees that promote Professor of Pathology, Harvard Medical School educational and research opportunities for future and Co-Director of Research, Senior Scientist, and Ankeny established scientists; these include but are not limited Scholar of Retinal Molecular Biology, Schepens Eye to the Minority Recruitment Committee, Joint Com- Research Institute mittee on the Status of Women, Faculty Committee on Student Research, Summer Honors Undergraduate Dr. Patricia D’Amore is an internationally recognized ex- Research Program (SHURP), Henry K. Beecher Prize in pert of vascular growth and development, and has been Medical Ethics Committee, Selection Committee for at the forefront of angiogenesis research for over three the Eleanor and Miles Shore Fellowship Program for decades. Investigations conducted in her laboratory Scholars in Medicine, and the Faculty Diversity Commit- have helped form the foundations of vascular-targeting tee. Since 2003, Dr. D’Amore has served as Co-Director therapies, which are currently used to treat various Director of the Leder Human Biology & Translational cancers and vascular diseases of the eye. Dr. D’Amore’s Medicine Program at HMS. For her efforts in training studies have also uncovered important physiological future leaders in research, Dr. D’Amore was honored roles of vascular growth factors—yielding crucial insight in 2006 with the A. Clifford Barger Excellence in into the safe use of antiangiogenic therapies. Mentoring Award. Dr. D’Amore received her PhD in biology from Boston Dr. D’Amore is also committed to fostering scientific University in 1977. She went on to conduct postdoctoral discussion and communication. She founded the Boston research in the Department of Ophthalmology and Angiogenesis Meeting, now in its 13th year; this meeting the Department of Physiological Chemistry at Johns continues to be a highly regarded forum for presenting Hopkins University School of Medicine. There, she was new findings and promoting collaboration, understand- appointed Instructor in 1979 and Assistant Professor ing, and advancement in angiogenesis research. She has in 1980. Dr. D’Amore returned to Boston in 1981 to join held editorial roles for many scientific journals, includ- Dr. Judah Folkman at Children’s Hospital, where she has ing Executive Editor of Experimental Eye Research, since served as a Research Associate in the Department Associate Editor of American Journal of Pathology, of Surgery. At HMS, Dr. D’Amore became Associate and Editor-in-Chief of Microvascular Research. For her Professor of Pathology in 1989, and was promoted to scientific and academic achievements, Dr. D’Amore was Professor of Ophthalmology (Pathology) in 1998. Dr. elected to The Academy at Harvard Medical School in D’Amore also joined Schepens Eye Research Institute 2004, and received the Senior Scientific Investigator as a Senior Scientist in 1998, where she is the Ankeny Award from Research to Prevent Blindness in 2006. In Scholar of Retinal Molecular Biology. 2009, she was elected a Gold Fellow by the Association To complement her scientific achievements, Dr. for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology. Dr. D’Amore D’Amore obtained her MBA degree from Northeastern delivered the 2010 Isner Lecture for the Jeffrey M. Isner University in 1987, and has parlayed her knowledge and Endowed Memorial Lectureship, a venue for cutting- superb management skills into numerous leadership edge, thought-provoking discussions on basic and roles. Since 2001, Dr. D’Amore has served as Co-Chair of translational research. She is also the recipient of the the Program in Development in Angiogenesis, Invasion 2012 Rous-Whipple Award from the American Society of & Metastasis at the Dana Farber/Harvard Cancer Center. Investigative Pathology. At Schepens, she was appointed Associate Director of 16 PEOPLE & & PARTNER S vice c vice h air protein—thus opening a new therapeutic avenue for s Lloyd P. Aiello, MD, PhD diabetic and other retinopathies. Dr. Aiello is recognized internationally for his leadership in diabetic retinopathy research. In 2002, he Vice Chair for Centers of Excellence, Department of founded and served as the inaugural chair for the Diabet- Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School ic Retinopathy Clinical Research Network (DRCR.net), a Professor of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School national collaborative network dedicated to facilitating Vice President of Ophthalmology and Head of Joslin’s multi-center clinical research for diabetic retinopathy, Section on Eye Research, Joslin Diabetes Center diabetic macular edema, and related disorders. Funded Director, Beetham Eye Institute by the National Eye Institute, DRCR.net is now comprised of 150 centers nationwide representing academic medi- Dr. Aiello received his PhD in biochemistry and MD from cal institutions and private practice groups. Boston University School of Medicine. He completed In 2008, Dr. Aiello was named Vice Chair for Centers residency in ophthalmology at the Wilmer Ophthalmo- of Excellence (COE) in the HMS Department of Oph- logical Institute at Johns Hopkins University and thalmology. These centers are designed to coordinate Hospital before coming to the Joslin Diabetes Center, the department’s efforts in patient care, research, and where he completed both a clinical vitreoretinal and a training in key areas of ophthalmology in order to lever- research fellowship. He joined the Joslin staff in 1994. age the expertise and core strengths of faculty across A third-generation Joslin ophthalmologist, Dr. Aiello affiliates. As Vice Chair, Dr. Aiello brings a wealth of is committed to eliminating vision loss due to diabetic collaborative insight, experience and energy to this role. retinopathy and other related retinopathies, which Initial COE targets include diabetic eye disease, AMD, account for the majority of blindness among working- cornea, and glaucoma. age individuals in the United States and other devel- Dr. Aiello is the author of over 130 original papers and oped countries. His research aims to determine the 215 publications, including contributions to the New underlying biochemistry and molecular mechanisms of England Journal of Medicine, Nature Medicine, PNAS, these diseases, then develop and test novel therapeutic Journal of Biological Chemistry, Journal of Clinical In- interventions through rigorous translational and clinical vestigation, Diabetes, Lancet, and many others covering trial research. a wide range of topics in diabetic eye disease. Dr. Aiello Dr. Aiello and collaborating Joslin scientists—includ- has received 40 national and international awards and ing George L. King, MD, Head of the Section on Vascular honors, including the Alcon Research Institute Award, Cell Biology and Director of Research at Joslin—were the ARVO/Pfizer Ophthalmics Translational Research key members of the HMS teams working on angiogen- Award, the Award of Merit in Retina Research from the esis research, a field founded by Dr. Judah Folkman. Retina Society, the Senior Achievement Award from Their pioneering work demonstrated the role of vascular the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the Charles endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in diabetic retinopa- Schepens Award in Research, the Outstanding Foreign thy and the therapeutic potential of VEGF inhibitors. In Investigator Award from the Japan Society of Diabetic related research, Dr. Aiello’s laboratory made significant Complications, and the Novartis Award in Diabetes. The progress toward understanding and manipulating the Research to Prevent Blindness Foundation has awarded expression, regulation, and signaling functions of VEGF Dr. Aiello the Dolly Green Scholar Award, the Special Re- and its receptors. Dr. Aiello published the first evidence search Scholar Award, and the Lew R. Wasserman Merit that protein kinase C-beta (PKC-beta) is involved in Award; from the Macula Society, Dr. Aiello has received excessive blood vessel growth and vascular leakage in the Rosenthal Foundation Award and the Paul Henkind diabetic retinopathy. The team went on to develop a Memorial Award. PKC-beta inhibitor that interrupts the actions of this 19 PEOPLE & & PARTNER S VICE

C H AIR S

wealth of academic strength and collaboration within David G. Hunter, MD, PhD the Department by rigorously recruiting faculty with dual fellowship training—combining pediatric ophthal- Vice Chair for Promotions and Reappointments, mology and subspecialty training in neuro-ophthalmolo- Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School gy and oculoplastics. Dr. Hunter is best known for his expertise in com- Professor of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School plex strabismus (misalignment of the eyes) in adults Richard Robb Chair of Ophthalmology, Children’s and children. He is exploring and publishing innovative Hospital Boston techniques in strabismus surgery, including the “short Ophthalmologist-in-Chief, Children’s Hospital Boston tag noose” adjustable suture and transposition procedures for paretic strabismus. His research also focuses Dr. Hunter received his MD and PhD degrees at Baylor on developing more accurate ways to help pediatricians College of Medicine, and completed an ophthalmology identify eye problems in children. residency at Mass. Eye and Ear Infirmary/HMS. Dr. Hunter In collaboration with Elizabeth Engle, MD, HMS furthered his training with a pediatric ophthalmology Professor of Neurology and Ophthalmology, Dr. Hunter fellowship at Wilmer Eye Institute of Johns Hopkins has established new clinical systems and protocols for Medical School, where he joined the faculty in both studying the genetics of common strabismus disorders, Ophthalmology and Biomedical Engineering. He including simple esotropia, exotropia and anisometropic returned to HMS in 2002 as Ophthalmologist-in-Chief amblyopia. These new protocols—which include clinical of Children’s Hospital. exams and sampling of affected and non-affected During his tenure, Dr. Hunter has encouraged both family members to ensure proper phenotyping—will clinical excellence and research innovation within the serve as models for ongoing and future genetic studies Ophthalmology division at Children’s. He created the at HMS affiliates. first International Fellowship in Pediatric Ophthalmol- A preeminent expert in optics and refraction, Dr. ogy, and led the development, initiation, and funding Hunter delivers lectures worldwide and via podcast; he of the Children’s Hospital Boston Visiting Professor- has also authored numerous scientific articles, editori- ship lecture series. Since its establishment in 2006, this als, and book chapters. He co-authored Last Minute lecture series has brought four to six internationally Optics, a widely used optics review book, and serves as recognized visiting professors to Boston each year. Editor-in-Chief of Journal of the American Association A devoted mentor and teacher, Dr. Hunter was nomi- for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus. For his nated for the Harvard Medical Student Teaching Award outstanding contributions to clinical ophthalmology, in 2004, and received the Robert Petersen Pediatric Dr. Hunter has received numerous honors, including the Ophthalmology teaching award in 2005. As HMS Vice Richard Starr Ross Clinician Scientist Award from Johns Chair for Promotions and Reappointments, Dr. Hunter Hopkins University and the Research to Prevent Blind- facilitates the academic advancement of department ness Lew R. Wasserman Merit Award. faculty across all HMS affiliates. He also has added to the 21 PEOPLE & & PARTNER

AFFILIATES & PARTNERS S

Mass. Eye and Ear’s 2010 Quality and Outcomes report highlights several benchmark standards AFFILIATE for patient care. S & & S

Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary Mass. Eye and Ear’s 24/7 Mass. Eye and Ear’s Eye PARTNER Founded in 1824, the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary is a pre-eminent spe- dedicated Eye Emergency Wait Times in Emergency Departments Trauma Service has developed

cialty, teaching, and research hospital caring for disorders of the eye, ear, nose, Department (ED) is the only 5 highly successful, standardized S specialized facility of its kind 4.3 protocols for treating emer- throat, head, and neck. Mass. Eye and Ear is the main primary and tertiary care in New England, and provides 4.05 gency eye injuries. According to facility of the HMS Department of Ophthalmology, and the hub of its teaching care to over 12,000+ patients 4 a recent review of all open globe every year for a wide array of injury cases treated at Mass. and research activities. The hospital’s dedicated staff provides a full range of urgent ophthalmic issues. The Eye and Ear from January 2000 primary and subspecialty medical and surgical care to nearly 225,000 patients ED has earned a stellar reputa- 3 to July 2007, the post-surgical tion as one of the most efficient 2.3 infection rate of endophthalmi- each year, and serves as a major referral center throughout the northeast. With emergency departments in the tis was less than 1 percent. By hours a medical staff that tops nearly 130 full-time physicians and some 325 commu- country. Compared to data from 2 comparison, the endophthal- the 2009 Press Ganey Emer- mitis rate in the United States nity-based physicians, Mass. Eye and Ear encourages multi-disciplinary and gency Department Pulse Report, is 6.9 percent after open globe interdisciplinary pursuits across patient care, education, and research. Seminal the average wait time at Mass. 1 repair, according to the U.S. Eye and Ear to see an ophthal- National Eye Trauma Registry. contributions to these three mission-critical areas span nearly a two hundred mologist in the ED is almost half The service also has exceeded year history and have shaped the hospital’s reputation and success as a national the average of state and national 0 benchmark outcomes with wait times. national state Mass. Eye some of the lowest enucleation and global center of excellence in ophthalmology and otolaryngology. average average and Ear (eye removal) rates nationwide, N = 12,239 and some of the lowest rates reported for sympathetic ophthal- In 2011, the Schepens Eye Research Institute became researchers, and academicians. In fact, a significant The Comprehensive Oph- mia—a devastating and vision- a member of the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Founda- number of graduating residents—nearly 60 per- thalmology and Cataract threatening complication that tion—forming the world’s largest and most robust cent—pursue academic careers after fellowship rather Consultation Service (COS) can occur in the non-injured eye basic and clinical ophthalmology research enterprise. than establishing a full-time private practice. Today, handles more than 20,000 after open globe surgery. Both institutions are long-time collaborators in vision about one in six ophthalmology chairmen in academic patient visits each year. In research,with complementary areas of expertise and institutions across the United States and Canada are addition to serving walk-in Rates of Endophthalmitis technology. Together, this scientifically rich and di- HMS postdoctoral alumni—striking testimony to the patients, COS serves as a key 6.9 % 7 verse union is uniquely primed to solve the problems caliber of the department’s graduates and the strength resource for ophthalmic refer- Cataract Surgery: Difference between of and to find cures for blinding diseases. of its programs. rals from the HMS network of Actual and Target Refraction (3 months follow-up) 17 hospitals and affiliates, as 100% Educating future leaders in Thriving patient care well as referrals from private 6 ophthalmology Mass. Eye and Ear strives to enhance every patient’s practitioners from all over As the flagship academic center for the HMS Depart- quality of life by providing the best possible care. New England. The service 80% ment of Ophthalmology, Mass. Eye and Ear is deeply Central to this mission is the hospital’s highly skilled specializes in cataract extrac- 5 committed to providing a superb education and an ex- and compassionate team of physicians, many of whom tion with intraocular lens citing, fruitful learning experience to the next genera- are global leaders in their fields of specialty. Every implantation. Between July 60% tion of ophthalmology health care leaders. Innovative physician specializes in at least one area of ophthalmic 2008 and June 2009, COS 4 medical training programs prepare young physicians care; some physicians are cross-trained in multiple performed 974 cataract sur- and scientists to excel as leaders in today’s increasing- specialties, and nearly all have completed subspecialty geries at Mass. Eye and Ear’s 40% ly complex and global health care environment. Broad fellowship training. Most conduct active laboratory main Boston campus. Surgical 3 clinical and surgical exposure, a first-rate mentoring and/or clinical research programs; this knowledge results exceeded national and percentage of patients program, and unparalleled research opportunities contributes immeasurably to their clinical, surgi- international benchmarks 20% combine to offer a world class medical education cal, and diagnostic expertise. The talented faculty, (Cataract and Refractive Sur- 2 experience. Each year, the department’s progressive together with scientifically advanced medical care and gery Today Europe, May 2009, training programs attract 600+ of the highest-caliber dedicated support staff, keeps Mass. Eye and Ear at and Cole Eye Institute, Out- 0% physician applicants from around the world to match the forefront of care. comes 2008) with 92 percent < -2 -2 to <-1 -1 to +1 > + to +2 > +2 1 diopters (spherical equivalent) its eight residency and 14 fellowship positions. of patients achieving within 0.0 % Graduates of the department’s training programs 1 diopter of target refraction Benchmark for refractive outcome after cataract surgery (75% to 90%)2 reported Mass. Eye and Ear are well prepared to be tomorrow’s leading clinicians, after surgery. average Trauma Service

N = 974 N = 95 22 PEOPLE & & PARTNER S AFFILIATE Best-of-class services spur best clinical facility and a 90,000 square foot research center to its main Boston campus. Additionally, an outpatient

S & & S outcomes As a preeminent center of ophthalmic care, Mass. Eye surgical center will be developed in Boston’s Longwood PARTNER and Ear establishes global standards for quality patient Medical Area. To support its new service partnerships care while pushing the envelope internally to achieve and department expansions, the hospital has added

S the highest levels of excellence. In 2010, the hospital more than a dozen esteemed physicians and researchers published its first Quality and Outcomes report, which to its full-time staff in just the last two years. Aggressive documented clinical and surgical outcomes data for 13 recruitment efforts are ongoing at Mass. Eye and Ear to subspecialty procedures. The initial impetus for this keep pace with its accelerated growth. effort was to determine the quality of care and how well the patient experience is managed; ultimately, however, Advancing ophthalmic science the report also showed that the hospital is leading the & discovery medical community in the development of outcomes For nearly two centuries, Mass. Eye and Ear faculty measures in ophthalmic care. members have pioneered advances in ophthalmic medicine and research, many of which have set standards Reaching out to patients of care in the United States and abroad. The pursuit and partners of knowledge has driven numerous groundbreaking In 2008, Mass. Eye and Ear launched a strategic and discoveries; scientists have developed new drugs and collaborative plan for growth, which was designed devices, perfected new techniques, identified disease- to streamline services and expand its expertise and causing genes, and translated groundbreaking laborato- resources to as many people as possible. Since that ry research into clinical treatments that benefit scores of time, the hospital has forged several highly successful people. Today, the department remains at the forefront alliances with its HMS affiliates and partners that will of discovery, aggressively tackling new areas of research directly benefit patients by nurturing an environment and developing next-generation tools and technologies for improved patient care, research activities, and edu- to combat blinding diseases. Mass. Eye and Ear provides cational programs. a first-rate setting for scientists who facilitate a broad Mass. Eye and Ear has added ophthalmic services in and aggressive program of basic, translational, and clini- multiple satellite offices beyond Boston’s city limits, cal research. Key areas of study focus on retinal degen- new retinal degeneration disease genes and to im- providing thousands of patients with easy access to erations, (including age-related macular degeneration Eric Pierce, MD, PhD prove genetic testing for patients with inherited retinal world-class care. Mass. Eye and Ear has also established and retinitis pigmentosa), glaucoma, Keratoprosthesis, degenerative disorders. He has also demonstrated that it is critical to functionally test DNA sequence variants its first teleretinal imaging program in MGH’s Chel- corneal infections and ocular tumors. During the last Lecturer on Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School sea Health Center to screen patients for diabetic eye several years, the department also has made significant to accurately identify specific disease-causing muta- disease. Numerous expansions and modernizations to inroads in the specialty areas of ocular genetics, regen- Associate Director, Berman-Gund Laboratory for the tions. Dr. Pierce is also applying his genetic expertise its physical facilities—including a new state-of-the-art eration, and repair. Study of Retinal Degenerations, Massachusetts Eye and to therapeutic discovery and helped demonstrate the Ear Infirmary surgical center, renovated pediatric and rehabilita- safety and efficacy of gene therapy for the RPE65 genetic tion suites, and a renovated radiology department with Bringing personalized medicine to Director, Ocular Genomics Institute, Massachusetts Eye form of Leber congenital amaurosis, an early onset form significant equipment upgrades—have added capacity Mass. Eye and Ear and Ear Infirmary of retinal degeneration. and comfort for patients. In 2010, the hospital kicked Delivering highly targeted care to patients based on their Dr. Pierce earned a PhD in biochemistry at the Uni- off an ambitious expansion plan that will add approxi- unique genetic makeup is now an exciting possibility Dr. Pierce, a clinician, educator, and preeminent leader versity of Wisconsin-Madison and his MD at HMS/MIT mately 50,000 square feet to its central Charles Street thanks to modern genomics and powerful new comput- in the area of retinal degenerations, recently joined Health Sciences and Technology Division. He completed ing technologies. At Mass. Eye and Ear, transforming the Mass. Eye and Ear and HMS as Associate Director of his ophthalmology residency at Mass. Eye and Ear/HMS, hope of personalized medicine into a 21st century reality the Berman-Gund Laboratory for the Study of Retinal followed by a combined research-clinical fellowship in is now a vigorous focus of the department. In 2011, the Degenerations. As Director of the new Ocular Genomics pediatric ophthalmology at Children’s Hospital Boston. department launched the Ocular Genomics Institute, Institute, he will direct the Genetic Therapies Program— He joined the faculty of Children’s Hospital Boston work- which combines clinical information from a patient’s accelerating the department’s growth into advanced ing in clinical care and angiogenesis research for three electronic medical records and clinical samples from studies in genomic research and gene therapy. Dr. Pierce years before being recruited to the University of Penn- Mass. Eye and Ear’s expanding biobank. Relating clinical is working in close collaboration with Berman-Gund sylvania. In 1999, Dr. Pierce joined the F.M. Kirby Center information to tissue and DNA samples, coupled with Laboratory Director Eliot L. Berson, MD, and Janey for Molecular Ophthalmology in the Scheie Eye Institute advanced DNA sequencing and analysis technologies, Wiggs, MD, PhD, who directs the Genetic Diagnostics of the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine. will allow investigators to unravel disease mechanisms section of the Institute. He focused his work on retinal degenerations and was a and develop new interventions at an accelerated pace. Dr. Pierce’s scientific efforts have resulted in ground- member of the Division of Ophthalmology at Children’s The department’s ten-year goal is to have personal ge- breaking ways to address retinal degenerations using ge- Hospital of Philadelphia, where he attained an appoint- nome sequences embedded into the electronic medical netic sequencing and gene therapy methods. Recently, ment as Associate Professor of Ophthalmology. records of the nearly 200,000 patients treated annually he has used next-generation DNA sequencing to identify at Mass. Eye and Ear. 24 PEOPLE & & PARTNER S AFFILIATE Scientific endeavors carried out at Schepens span all levels of research, from developing novel concepts to S & & S Schepens Eye Research Institute Children’s Hospital Boston In 1947, World War II hero Charles L. Schepens, MD, conducting clinical testing in various forms of eye dis- PARTNER joined the HMS Howe Laboratory as a research fel- eases. Extensive preclinical investigations carried out by A leader in pediatric healthcare for more than 130 years, low. Recognizing the need for a dedicated eye research Schepens researchers often dovetail with ongoing basic Children’s Hospital Boston first opened in 1869 as a 20-

S organization, Dr. Schepens established the Retina and translational efforts at other HMS affiliates. These bed facility in Boston’s South End. Since then, scientists Foundation in 1950, representing a handful of research- collaborations have led to innovative pathways for ocu- at Children’s Hospital have made important contribu- ers working out of a modest Boston tenement. This lar disease therapies. tions in eradicating some of the major illnesses that have collaboration was renamed the Eye Research Institute of To advance these efforts, Schepens has formed dis- threatened young lives. Today, the hospital stands out as Retina Foundation in 1974 to better represent its active tinct Centers of Excellence to streamline the transfer of a preeminent institution for pediatric care by utilizing research program, and became formally affiliated with scientific knowledge to clinical application: cutting-edge research from disciplines such as genom- HMS in 1991. Today, the Institute bears the name of its ics, proteomics, and informatics. Children’s Hospital influential founder, who is regarded as “the father of The Mobility Enhancement and has also revolutionized treatment options for infections, retinal surgery.” In a cutting-edge facility just a short Rehabilitation Center congenital disorders, and other childhood diseases. walk from the main campuses of Mass. Eye and Ear and Directed by Dr. Peli, an expert in vision rehabilitation, The Department of Ophthalmology at Children’s Massachusetts General Hospital, Schepens researchers the Mobility Enhancement and Rehabilitation Center Hospital Boston is the largest group of full-time prac- advance the understanding of eye disease and facilitate aims to improve eyesight in visually impaired patients. ticing pediatric ophthalmologists in the United States. the transfer of scientific knowledge into clinical use. Researchers are developing novel and innovative tech- Here, children and families receive the most advanced Since its inception, Schepens has trained over 600 post- niques to enhance vision—and thus quality of life—for testing and treatment available for all types of visual doctoral fellows and produced nearly 5,000 scientific people with various forms of vision loss, including stra- impairments. Specialized services are available for mis- papers and books on the eye. Schepens Eye Research bismus, amblyopia, age-related macular degeneration aligned eyes (strabismus), cataract and retinal degen- position Children’s Hospital to be a pioneer in the Institute became a subsidiary of the Massachusetts Eye (AMD), and hemianopia. erative conditions, as well as comprehensive evaluation applications of vascular biology, bioinformatics, and Ear Foundation in 2011. and treatment of patients with eye muscle problems or genomics, clinical research, neurobiology, translational Center for Corneal & External Eye refractive concerns. The Department of Ophthalmology research, and stem cell research. Leadership Disease Research is a collaborative environment that includes clinicians at In 1993, J. Wayne Streilein, MD, joined Schepens Eye The interdisciplinary research in the Center for Corneal the top of their field, award-winning principal investiga- Expanding partnerships: a model Research Institute as Ankeny Director of Research. & External Eye Disease Research focuses on multiple tors, and trainees from around the world. for growth He became President in 1995, and was responsible for conditions that affect the cornea, such as dry eye In 2009, the Department of Ophthalmology of the Institute’s substantial growth in size and impact. disease, corneal dystrophies, infections, and injuries. Innovative treatments for pediatric Children’s Hospital Boston began a formal relation- After Dr. Streilein’s sudden passing in 2004, renowned Dr. Dana, a renowned immunologist and forerunner in eye disorders ship in patient care with Mass. Eye and Ear Infirmary microbiologist Michael Gilmore, PhD, was recruited as corneal research, directs this center, which has helped Led by Ophthalmologist-in-Chief David G. Hunter, MD, and Children’s Hospital Ophthalmology Foundation President and Ankeny Director of Research. Dr. Gilmore develop numerous pharmacological treatments and in- PhD, the Ophthalmology Department is known interna- (CHOF). This unique arrangement furthers the mission led the Institute for five years before joining the Howe novative therapeutic methods. tionally for its innovative techniques in treating difficult of both institutions to increase access to patient care Laboratory at Mass. Eye and Ear to focus on research. pediatric vision problems. Ophthalmologists at Chil- in a seamless fashion and integrate training and In 2009, Kenneth Fischer, MBA, was named President Center for Age-Related Macular dren’s Hospital have extensive experience performing research programs. and Chief Operating Officer. Co-Directors of Research, Degeneration (AMD) Research cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation in Patricia A. D’Amore, PhD, MBA; Reza Dana, MD, MPH, Among retinal diseases, AMD is of particular concern as infants and children. In some cases, Botox (botulinum World-changing research MSc; and Eli Peli, OD, MSc, form the Institute’s triumvi- it becomes more and more prevalent with increasing life toxin A) is used in young children to correct strabismus The research mission of Children’s Hospital encom- rate research directorate. expectancies. Led by Dr. D’Amore, a world-renowned instead of eye muscle surgery. When eye muscle surgery passes clinical research, basic research, postdoctoral Unique centers of excellence authority in AMD, the Center of Excellence for AMD Re- is needed, ophthalmologists can use adjustable sutures, training of new scientists and community service search brings together outstanding scientists, engineers, which allow for adjustments to be made in the position programs. With over $225 million in annual funding, and clinicians to decipher the mechanisms of AMD and of the eye after surgery. Children’s is also at the leading Children’s Hospital Boston is home to the world’s most combat this growing cause of vision loss. edge of treatment for complex strabismus in children, dynamic research enterprise at a pediatric center. Sig- and recently presented a webcast for management of nificant ophthalmologic advancements have been made Minda de Gunzburg Center for Ocular Duane syndrome using transposition surgery and ad- at Children’s in the field of retinopathy of prematurity, Regeneration justable sutures. revealing the important role of growth factors in this The Minda de Gunzburg Center for Ocular Regeneration vision-robbing childhood disease. Studies conducted forms an arena for developing revolutionary methods Multidisciplinary programs in collaboration with Mass. Eye and Ear have shed new to regenerate eye tissues. Michael Young, PhD, a leading Collaboration is central to the success of Children’s light on the etiology of vision loss in glaucoma, revealing expert in tissue and stem cell transplantation, leads Hospital, and multidisciplinary programs allow teams of the chain of molecular and cellular events that damage the effort to develop regenerative therapies for various physicians and scientists with training in different scien- the optic nerve. During the last two decades, intense re- diseases, including AMD, glaucoma, corneal disease, and tific fields to work together to address specific medi- search at Children’s has uncovered some of the genetic ocular cancer. cal problems. Located in the John F. Enders Pediatric underpinnings of strabismus, revealing the underlying Research Laboratories and in the Karp Family Research genetics of seven inheritable forms of the disorder. Laboratories, the Multidisciplinary Programs uniquely 26 PEOPLE & & PARTNER S AFFILIATE (BEI), a dedicated on-site eye research center that fos- ters close partnerships between physicians and scien- S & & S Beetham Eye Institute tists at Joslin and BEI. Through the years, this model of Massachusetts General Hospital PARTNER at the Joslin Diabetes Center collaboration has accelerated bench-to-bedside thera- Massachusetts General Hospital consistently ranks in pies for patients. Beetham researchers were some of the the top 1 percent of the nation’s medical institutions and

S Joslin Diabetes Center is the world’s premier diabetes first to define complications from diabetic eye disease, is second in U.S. News & World Report’s most recent, research and clinical care institution, and is dedicated and have led preeminent discoveries and improvements “America’s Best Hospitals Survey.” Working collabora- to improving the lives of people with diabetes. Joslin in diabetes eye care that have preserved vision for more tively within Harvard’s broad network, the clinicians Diabetes Center owes its existence to Elliott Proctor than nine million people worldwide. Today, the Institute and researchers in this world-class institution are bring- Joslin, MD, who is widely considered to be the pioneer participates in virtually every major medical trial for dia- ing scientific breakthroughs to ophthalmic practice. of modern diabetes management. When Dr. Joslin began betic retinopathy in the United States, some 24-26 trials his private practice in 1898, he became the first physician at any given time. Allies in comprehensive eye care in the United States to specialize in diabetes—which In close collaboration with multiple HMS affiliate and was still a poorly understood disease with few treatment A new wave of discoveries partner institutions, Massachusetts General Hospi- options. In 1952, Dr. Joslin’s practice became formally Despite advances in eye care, some patients with diabe- tal (MGH) offers comprehensive and expert care for known as the Joslin Clinic, which moved to its current tes still suffer visual loss. Today, Joslin clinicians and re- a broad range of eye conditions. In 2009, the hospital location in the Longwood Medical Area in 1956. searchers from the BEI continue their quest to develop teamed with Mass. Eye and Ear to establish the Mass. With the discovery of insulin in the 1920s came new and improved methods to prevent diabetes-related Eye and Ear/Massachusetts General Hospital Depart- substantial growth in the life span of patients with eye complications. HMS Professor of Ophthalmology, ment of Ophthalmology, an innovative alliance that Cooperative pathology programs diabetes. Unfortunately, increased life expectancy also Dr. Lloyd P. Aiello, MD, PhD, is Head of Joslin’s Section formalized the centuries-old clinical and academic The Mass General Hospital Surgical Pathology Service brought an increased risk of vascular complications— on Eye Research and Director of the Beetham Eye Insti- partnership between the two world-class institutions. and Mass. Eye and Ear’s David G. Cogan Laboratory including diabetic retinopathy. By the 1950s, diabetic tute. In recent years, Dr. Aiello and other BEI members The department is staffed by Mass. Eye and Ear physi- of Ophthalmic Pathology collaborate extensively to retinopathy had become the leading cause of blindness have been at the forefront of several key discoveries that cians under the direction of HMS Ophthalmology Chief provide enhanced diagnostic services. The staff and full in the United States. may soon yield better treatments and therapies. These and Chair, Joan W. Miller, MD. Deeper collaboration and spectrum of diagnostic methods from MGH’s surgi- include the development of inhibitors to prevent pro- joint programmatic planning is enhancing the quality cal pathology services are available to facilitate the Combating diabetic eye complications liferation, bleeding, and detachment of blood vessels in of care, research, and teaching at both institutions. Pa- diagnostic and research work undertaken in the Cogan at the Beetham Eye Institute the back of the eye, as well as the development of treat- tients, in particular, will benefit from this closer connec- Laboratory. Cooperative programs between MGH and In the 1960s, Joslin physicians Lloyd M. Aiello, MD, and ments that block the activation of a molecule called pro- tion with seamless access to the most innovative care ophthalmic pathology specialists also support clinico- William P. Beetham, MD, noticed that retinal scarring tein kinase C (PKC). Previously, BEI researchers found available anywhere in the world. pathology research projects and enhanced educational (from causes other than diabetes) could prevent retinal PKC to be a major signaling pathway that, when activat- The proximity to Mass. Eye and Ear also allows and training initiatives throughout the HMS Ophthal- blood vessels from proliferating, bleeding and detach- ed, can trigger early cellular changes in the eye leading to access to advanced diagnostic tests, such as optical mology campus. ing—and thus prevent vision loss—in patients with diabetic retinopathy. Investigators have also identified coherence tomography, optic nerve imaging, and fundus diabetic retinopathy. Drs. Aiello and Beetham developed several key risk factors for diabetic eye disease—such as tomography. The Mass General Hospital for Children Teleretinal screening program a method that used lasers to create scars in retinas. This the thickness of the retina and changes in blood flow in provides pediatric services in collaboration with oph- Another vital alliance between Mass General Hospi- technique, laser photocoagulation therapy, reduced the the back of the eye—that may enable clinicians to better thalmologists from Children’s Hospital Boston—both tal and Mass. Eye and Ear was realized in 2008 when a risk of blindness in diabetic retinopathy from over 75 predict who may be at risk for the disease. primary pediatric teaching sites for HMS. These valuable teleretinal imaging program was established at MGH’s percent to less than 2 percent. Three decades later, this alliances allow the ophthalmology specialists at MGH Chelsea Health Center. The program provides expand- approach remains the “gold” standard of care for treat- Preventing blindness through patient to determine the best possible course of treatment for ed, preventive care to high-risk patients with diabetes. ing proliferative diabetic retinopathy and has saved the participation each patient. Retinal images are sent electronically to Mass. Eye and sight of hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. Dr. Elliott P. Joslin believed that patient participation Ear and screened for diabetic retinopathy and other To combat diabetic eye complications, the Joslin and empowerment were vital in the effort to control dia- Neuro-ophthalmology consultation pathologies, enabling early intervention and potential Clinic formed The William P. Beetham Eye Institute betes. Fulfilling this vision is the Joslin Vision Network Because visual function is closely integrated with neu- sight-saving diagnosis and treatment. This program (JVN), implemented by Joslin researchers in 1990. This rological function, many conditions that affect the brain also provides primary care practices with key diabetes initiative uses advanced video technology to detect ab- may also affect vision. Through a streamlined consulta- screening results that are central to meeting major per- normal retinal blood vessels, and not only allows regular tion process, physicians from Mass General’s neurology, formance measures of health care insurers. and noninvasive screenings of diabetic retinopathy (at neurosurgery, and inpatient services work jointly with over 70 sites in the United States and abroad), but also Mass. Eye and Ear’s Neuro-Ophthalmology Service to allows patients in the network to participate in clinical provide unparalleled services to patients with neuro- trials. Through its 50-Year Medalist program, the Joslin visual complications, as well as patients with primary Diabetes Center also recognizes individuals who live neurological conditions that may cause visual distur- with diabetes for 50 years or longer without apparent bances. This service is widely recognized for handling complications. Many Medalists are participating in a rare neuro-ophthalmic conditions, and receives many long-term study that is yielding important clues into the referrals from general ophthalmologists and optom- prevention of diabetic retinopathy. etrists. In addition, the service coordinates ophthalmic inpatient consultation for urgent patient care. 28 PEOPLE & & PARTNER S AFFILIATE Type I Keratoprosthesis (KPro) surgery pioneered by HMS Emeritus Professor, Claes Dohlman, MD, PhD; S & & S Veterans Affairs Boston other innovative procedures include Descemet’s strip- PARTNER Healthcare System ping endothelial keratoplasty and treatments for choroi- dal melanoma.

S The Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare (VHA) System —one of 171 VA health care facilities across the country Training partners —is a full-service tertiary care center that provides a The VA Boston Healthcare System has a strong educa- broad spectrum of medical, surgical, and rehabilitative tional partnership with Mass. Eye and Ear and HMS. care to veterans across New England and the Veter- Residency training is a key mission area of VA ophthal- ans Integrated Service Network 1. The medical center mology. Guided by Dr. Daly, the department has signifi- encompasses three main campuses and five outpatient cantly improved the quality and depth of its training clinics located within a 40-mile radius of Boston. program in just the last few years, which has evolved into a highly structured curriculum comprised of surgi- Providing world-class care to veterans cal conferences, weekly faculty lectures and journal Affiliated with Boston University and Mass. Eye and clubs, with greater participation from residents. HMS Ear/HMS, the VA Boston Ophthalmology Department residents complete one six to seven week block rota- provides veterans with a full complement of eye care and tion at the VA each year of residency with exposure to services with specialization in vitreoretinal diseases, general and subspecialty clinical care in retina, cornea, glaucoma, neuro-ophthalmology, oculoplastics, cata- glaucoma, oculoplastics, and neuro-ophthalmology, as ract, strabismus, and cornea/external eye diseases. In well as hands-on surgical training. Third-year residents recent years, under the leadership of Chief of Ophthal- receive intensive cataract training and serve as primary mology, Mary K. Daly, MD, the department’s reputation surgeons on a large volume of cataract and glaucoma for delivering excellence in patient care has flourished; surgeries. The department utilizes state-of-the-art today, it is a premier provider of ophthalmic care within equipment, including two Eyesi virtual reality simula- the VA national network. The busy department offers tors to help residents hone their surgical skills. superb clinical and research talent to the department, 24/7, on-call access to more than 20,000 patients every Mary K. Daly, MD including clinician scientists from Mass. Eye and Ear and year; a number that has steadily climbed in recent years Supporting innovations in research the Boston University School of Medicine, tripling the along with an influx of ophthalmic referrals from other Historically, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs number of full-time staff in the last two years. She credits VA centers across the country. The department continu- has supported innovative R&D efforts in many areas Lecturer on Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School VA Boston Leadership—including Dr. Kamal Itani, Chief ally strives for innovation and, for example, is one of a of healthcare to improve the lives of Americans. This Associate Professor of Ophthalmology, Boston University of Surgery; Dr. Michael Charness, Chief of Staff; and Mr. handful of VA medical centers nationwide that offers same spirit of purpose drives ongoing research efforts School of Medicine Michael Lawson, Medical Center Director—for their tre- certain highly specialized procedures such as the Boston at the VA Boston. Since 2001, the VA has supported the Chief of Ophthalmology, Veterans Affairs Boston mendous support of Ophthalmology at VA Boston and efforts of HMS Professor of Ophthalmology, Dr. Joseph Healthcare System for always putting the patients first. “Today, I’m proud to Rizzo III, MD, in the Boston Retinal Implant Project. Associate Director, HMS Ophthalmology say that our staff and capabilities are at the leading edge In this endeavor, Dr. Rizzo leads a team of physicians, Residency Training Program, Veterans Affairs Boston of technology, and we are providing premier ophthalmic scientists, and engineers to develop an implantable Healthcare System services to our veterans. It’s unbelievably rewarding to microelectronic retinal prosthesis that can eventually work here and with this particular patient population,” restore some vision to people blinded by retinitis pig- Dr. Mary K. Daly obtained her BA from Harvard College in says Dr. Daly. “I know everyone, including the residents, mentosa and age-related macular degeneration (AMD). 1994 and her MD degree from Johns Hopkins University consider themselves lucky to be taking care of this won- This highly challenging and multidisciplinary research in 1998. After completing an ophthalmology residency at derful group of people.” is being carried out by the Center for Innovative Visual the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins in 2002, she Dr. Daly is a valued member of the Veterans Affairs Rehabilitation located at the VA. conducted fellowship training in cornea and external Boston Integrated Ethics Committee, which strives to eye disease at Moorfields Eye Hospital, London. Dr. Daly ensure ethical practices in the Veterans Healthcare Ad- specializes in complex cataract, anterior segment, and ministration and foster a strong ethical environment and corneal surgery including keratoprosthesis and Des- culture through ethical leadership. cemet’s stripping endothelial keratoplasty. Dr. Daly is also a clinical champion of the Ophthalmic Since 2005, Dr. Daly has championed transforma- Surgical Outcomes Data Committee (OSOD) under the tive changes within the Department of Ophthalmology direction of Mary Lawrence, MD, Deputy Director of the at the Boston VA, boosting continuity and quality of Vision Center of Excellence. The VA Boston is one of five patient care, expanding research efforts, and creating OSOD pilot sites tracking ophthalmic surgery data in or- an enhanced training rotation for HMS residents. Under der to establish a prospective outcome-based program Veteran’s Affairs Boston Healthcare her guidance, the department’s staff, programs, and ser- for comparative assessment and enhancement of the System, Jamaica vices continue to grow at a rapid clip. She has recruited quality of cataract surgery across the VA system. Plain campus 30 PEOPLE & & PARTNER S

MARK C. KuPERWASER, MD AFFILIATE Converging disciplines In conjunction with the Department of Ophthalmology, S & & S Beth Israel Deaconess the Neuro-Ophthalmology Service, under the direction PARTNER Medical Center of Nurhan Torun, MD, employs a wide range of ophthalmologic and neurologic evaluative techniques to provide

S Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) is one care for patients with neurological difficulties. The Eye of the nation’s preeminent academic medical centers, Movement Laboratory provides quantitative assessment committed to providing excellence in clinical care, of difficulties with eye movements and visual percep- teaching, research, and community outreach. A major tion, both for research and for patient care needs. teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School with more BIDMC partners with the nearby Joslin Diabetes than 1,250 full-time medical staff, BIDMC is ranked each Center, a preeminent diabetes research and clinical year as a “Best Hospital” by U.S. News & World Report in care organization, to provide patients with a spectrum multiple specialties. BIDMC’s focus on safe and qual- of multidisciplinary care for diabetes and endocrine ity patient care has helped establish them as a national disorders in both inpatient and outpatient settings. The leader in health care quality, safety and transparency. BIDMC/Joslin Collaborative Eye Care Program offers BIDMC’s thriving research programs, state-of-the-art diabetes-specific ophthalmic care focused on preventing clinical care and unparalleled medical education are and treating eye disease. Ophthalmologists in this pro- recognized worldwide. gram are specially trained to treat complex eye conditions associated with diabetes. The BIDMC Division of Ophthalmology Located within the Longwood Medical Eye Center, the Highly lauded teachers and mentors BIDMC Division of Ophthalmology provides compre- Using outstanding depth of knowledge and experi- hensive medical and surgical treatment of eye diseases. ence, BIDMC’s esteemed team of mentors, educators, Frank G. Berson, MD Dr. Frank Berson, Chief of the Division of Ophthalmol- and clinicians play a key role in the education of HMS ogy, leads an exceptionally trained team of ophthalmolo- ophthalmology residents and fellows. All second-year Associate Professor of Ophthalmology, Harvard gists, all of whom hold academic appointments in the residents rotate through BIDMC and participate in Medical School HMS Department of Ophthalmology. In research and comprehensive ophthalmology and subspecialty clinics, Chief, Division of Ophthalmology, Beth Israel clinical care, the Division collaborates with other HMS including retina, glaucoma, and neuro-ophthalmology. Deaconess Medical Center affiliates, including Beetham Eye Institute at Joslin Dia- Surgical experience is also a primary focus of this rota- betes Center and Mass. Eye and Ear. tion, and residents spend a significant amount of time As Chief of the Division of Ophthalmology at BIDMC, Under the direction of Jorge G. Arroyo, MD, MPH, the participating in cataract, retina, and glaucoma surgeries. Dr. Berson is an integral member of the world- Retina Service serves an international patient base, and Drs. Berson and Arroyo, and Mark Kuperwaser, MD, have renowned surgical staff in the HMS Department of handles some of the most complex vitreoretinal cases received teaching awards from Mass. Eye and Ear/ HMS Ophthalmology. He holds an academic appointment utilizing a complete array of state-of-the-art equipment ophthalmology residents, most recently Dr. Kuperwaser as Associate Professor in Ophthalmology at HMS. and intraocular instruments. Dr. Arroyo is a sought-after in 2010. Dr. Berson was recently recognized by BIDMC for his authority in complex vitreoretinal and other surgical milestone anniversary of 30 years of service. techniques and has participated in research studies Board-certified in ophthalmology, Dr. Berson on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), retinal received his MD degree from HMS in 1971. After com- detachment, and diabetic retinopathy. pleting an internship in surgery at Beth Israel Hospital, he went on to complete his residency and fellowships in ophthalmology at Mass. Eye and Ear. Dr. Berson’s clinical interests are focused on glaucoma and cataracts. For more than two decades (1982–2004), he served as Director of Medical Student Education for Mass. Eye and Ear/HMS Department of Ophthalmolo- gy. From 1982 to 1992, he was the Director of the HMS Ophthalmology Residency Training Program. Dr. Berson currently serves on the Executive Committee and the Subcommittee for Promotions and Reappointments in the HMS Department of Ophthalmology. At BIDMC, he is a member of the Board of Overseers and Treasurer of the Beth Israel Surgical Foundation. 32 PEOPLE & & PARTNER S

boost quality of care for patients who can now receive 24/7 on-site treatment at BWH from an outstanding Brigham and Women’s Hospital group of physicians who rank as one of the leading eye Aravind Eye Hospitals Brigham and Women’s Hospital (BWH) is committed trauma management teams in the country. The Aravind Eye Care System of India is the world’s to upholding the best practices in eye care. Centrally largest provider of eye care services, encompassing five located in Boston’s Longwood Medical Area, BWH has Integrated clinical services and hospitals, three managed eye hospitals, an international established a strong partnership with the Mass. Eye and training research foundation, an ophthalmic product manufac- Ear Department of Ophthalmology to ensure that their A second innovative alliance in 2009, led by Mass. Eye turing center, and a training center. Committed to the patients have convenient and direct access to best-in- and Ear and the Beetham Eye Institute at Joslin Diabetes prevention of needless vision loss, the Aravind Eye Hos- class eye care providers and services. Center, has enabled continuity of follow-up care (post pitals are revolutionizing the concept of efficient and The hospital’s guiding philosophy is to utilize an discharge) for BWH patients with the establishment of a sustainable eye care across the developing world. exceptionally trained and experienced team of eye care new, outpatient comprehensive ophthalmology service Upon his retirement in 1976, Govindappa providers, resources, and technology to achieve an opti- (COS) at One Joslin Place. Located in the heart of the Venkataswamy, MD, established the GOVEL Trust to mal outcome for every ophthalmology patient. Longwood Medical Area the service is directed by Lloyd support an alternate health care model. Under this Paul Aiello, MD, PhD, and staffed by Mass. Eye and Ear Trust, the Aravind Eye Hospitals were created as a Comprehensive care through ophthalmologists with participation from Joslin retina self-sustaining system that not only provides affordable collaboration specialists and BWH neuro-ophthalmologist director, high-quality care for millions of individuals, but also BWH offers comprehensive ophthalmology services Dr. Don Bienfang. The service provides BWH with out- serves as a model example of sustainable health care. Research and development and most subspecialty eye care through this clinical patient services, as well as inpatient consultations and For its remarkable impact, the Aravind Eye Care System Several Aravind programs, catering to all levels of oph- affiliation with Mass. Eye and Ear, which offers world- marks yet another important milestone in collaborative has been honored with several prestigious awards, thalmic teaching and training, are designed to meet the renowned expertise and diagnostic and treatment capa- service development among HMS affiliates. Patients can including the 2007 The António Champalimaud Vision demands of a growing ophthalmic health care system. bilities unmatched in the region. receive routine annual eye and vision exams as well as Award, the 2008 Gates Award for Global Health, and the More recently, Aravind has expanded its research facili- As the result of a comprehensive partnership, Mass. spectacle and lens correction. Comprehensive evalua- 2010 The Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize. ties and created PhD programs for medical and non- Eye and Ear began providing inpatient subspecialty tion and treatment of complex and systemic disorders, medical graduates. In 2010, there were 26 research proj- ophthalmic care and emergency eye trauma coverage to such as cataract, glaucoma, diabetes, macular degenera- International partnership ects being conducted in the department, with significant BWH patients in 2009. Trauma care at BWH is coor- tion, retinal detachment, conjunctivitis, and dry eye are Since 1988, HMS senior residents have had the option of growth predicted for coming years. dinated by the director of the Mass. Eye and Ear Oph- also provided. an elective rotation at Aravind Eye Hospital in Madurai. thalmic Trauma Service and is reinforced by its unique The Neuro-Ophthalmology service of the Brigham This unique training experience offers residents an un- Telemedicine: remote care and around-the-clock, dedicated eye Emergency Depart- and Women’s Hospital Department of Neurology diag- paralleled learning experience in international eye care, communication ment. This creative alliance has helped to streamline and noses and treats disorders involving the visual pathways and the opportunity for hands-on clinical and surgical As part of its comprehensive success, Aravind utilizes and eye movements. A number of neurological condi- exposure to many ophthalmic conditions rarely encoun- telemedicine to reach out to remote rural areas using tions affect the areas of the brain devoted to vision. Dis- tered in the United States. Since the program’s incep- computers, video conferencing and the Internet. turbances of these important visual areas may produce tion, more than 100 seniors have opted to experience an Through these technological services, eye care service debilitating symptoms, and often require high-quality, Aravind rotation. is made accessible and affordable by reducing travel specialized care. Expanding on this educational partnership, HMS cost and time for the patients. In addition, telemedicine Ophthalmology and Aravind leadership recently provides a network for eye care providers to share their conducted two joint grand rounds teleconferences. knowledge and expertise. These interactive, high-tech events have allowed faculty from both institutions the opportunity to present grand rounds cases in real time, and share observations and insights. 35 PEOPLE & & PARTNER S

Shanghai Eye and ENT Hospital Togus Veterans Affairs Cambridge Health Alliance Founded in 1952, the Shanghai Eye and ENT Hospital of Medical Center A Harvard-teaching affiliate, Cambridge Health Alli- Fudan University is a leading specialty hospital, which ance (CHA) is an award-winning, integrated health integrates medical care, education and research, provid- Togus Veterans Affairs Medical Center strives to system that serves Cambridge, Somerville and Boston’s ing patient care for the health of eye, ear, nose, throat, advance health care through research and education, metro-north communities. CHA encompasses three head, and neck. This 430-bed hospital is also a post- with an emphasis on preventive, primary, and specialty hospital campuses, an extensive primary care network, graduate teaching center of the Medical School of Fudan interventions in both outpatient and inpatient settings. the Cambridge Public Health Department, and a health University, and offers subspecialty training to ophthal- The dedicated staff at Togus VAMC provides high- plan, Network Health, which provides comprehensive mologists and otolaryngologists across China. quality and timely care to better serve veterans. health coverage to more than 160,000 Massachusetts residents. Community health is a major focus of CHA, Beginning an international dialogue History which provides high quality care to a diverse population, HMS Ophthalmology faculty and Chinese colleagues On March 21, 1866, Congress established the National the majority of who are non-English speaking patients from Shanghai Eye and ENT Hospital have begun a Homes for Disabled Volunteer Soldiers (NHDVS) to and represent socio-economically disadvantaged popu- dialogue aimed at exploring potential research and edu- provide care for wounded soldiers; soon thereafter, the lations. cational opportunities. This endeavor began in earnest Eastern Branch of NHDVS in Togus, Maine was estab- in December 2010, when several HMS faculty members lished. In 1930, the Togus NHDVS became a part of the CHA has gained national standing and recognition for traveled to Shanghai Hospital on a five-day international Veterans Administration, which provides benefits to its superb quality of care and innovative programs, outreach trip. The group received a tour of the institu- veterans and their dependents. Since its inception in including a 2010 “Best in Class” for Culturally and Lin- tion and presentations on its clinical and research ef- 1866, Togus VAMC has grown to be recognized locally, guistically Competent Care by the American Hospital forts. Faculty gained a solid perspective of the hospital’s regionally, and nationally as a leader in quality patient Association Institute for Diversity; and, since 2004, has HMS Instructor in Ophthalmology, Joseph Ciolino, MD, and Mass. Eye and Ear Clinical Fellow, Houman ophthalmology training process, as well as the needs of care. Today, the Department of Veterans Affairs Medi- been named multiple times as one of the Top 100 Most Hemmati, MD, PhD, at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Drs. Ciolino and Hemmati are the population they serve; today, for example, there are cal and Regional Office Center has an operating bed Integrated Health Systems in the U.S. by SDI, a leading collaborating with Professor Robert S. Langer (David H. Koch Institute Professor), Daniel Kohane, MD, only 600 phacoemulsion/cataract surgeons to serve the capacity of 176 beds, with a staff of approximately 900 healthcare market insight and analytics firm. In 2010, PhD (MIT and Children’s Hospital), Claes Dohlman, MD, PhD (Mass. Eye and Ear), and others on the country’s population of 1.3 billion. During their visit, full-time and part-time employees. the National Committee for Quality Assurance ranked development of long-term drug delivery systems for use in a wide range of ophthalmic conditions. HMS faculty provided an overview of ongoing research CHA Network Health as one of the top ten Medicaid efforts within the HMS Ophthalmology Department, as Ophthalmic care health plans in the U.S. well as details about the organization, structure of the As a regional referral center for ophthalmology in the HMS Department of Ophthalmology Residency Training state of Maine, Togus VAMC provides various clinical CHA has established several key academic affiliations Program, and innovations to the curriculum. services, including general surgery, ophthalmology, that offer residents a unique public health care experi- neurosurgery, pain management, and optometry. Here, ence. Through an educational partnership with the Collaborations aim to advance science senior residents work with staff ophthalmologists in Harvard Department of Ophthalmology, CHA provides and education surgical procedures for a broad range of ocular disease surgical training to residents during a six-week, part- This initial exchange proved highly successful, and HMS (including cataracts and glaucoma) as well as retina time rotation in their first year (PGY-2). Residents Ophthalmology reciprocated in the spring of 2011 when laser procedures. Togus VAMC is an academic affiliate of work alternatively under the direction of attending the faculty welcomed to Boston a five-member ophthal- Mass. Eye and Ear and the New England College ophthalmologists, Vincent James Patalano II, MD and mology team from Shanghai. The two-month visit gave of Optometry. Steven Patalano, MD, both of whom are Ophthalmology team members first-hand exposure to a full range of faculty members of HMS. Resident training focuses on learning opportunities, including general ophthalmol- Telemedicine: medical care at an introduction to intraocular surgical techniques for ogy and subspecialty training practices. With specialties a distance comprehensive ophthalmologists. During the rota- in glaucoma, retina, cornea, and cataracts, each Shang- Togus VAMC contributes greatly to the growing suc- tion, residents observe, assist and perform ophthalmic hai physician shadowed a faculty mentor from Mass. Eye cess of telemedicine programs, such as the Joslin Vision surgery basic techniques, and also gain exposure to and Ear in the operating room and clinic. Another goal Network (JVN). Implemented in 1990, the JVN uses cataract extraction with intraocular lens implantation of the team was to learn about the department’s resi- advanced digital video technology to detect abnormal by phacoemulsification. dency training program. Shanghai ophthalmologists retinal blood vessels. In 2005, over 1,200 patients from attended educational programs and lectures, and met Togus VAMC were selected to participate in a clinical with investigators to explore potential research collabo- trial through JVN. This study demonstrated the utility of rations. JVN for identifying the severity of wide-ranging ocular Ultimately, faculty members from both institutions conditions, thus determining the appropriate treatment look forward to a productive relationship, which will priorities for eye care and allowing clinicians to provide advance academic programs and scientific endeavors in “care at a distance.” various subspecialty fields in China. 37 HMS Department of Ophthalmology researchers and clinician scientists are continu- •• Elucidated the role of VEGFR3 PEOPLE as the mechanism by which the ously turning insights into cures that benefit scores of people. Many discoveries and cornea remains avascular (with- & Cornea PARTNER developments, past and present, are helping to enhance the knowledge and practice out blood vessels). This body of •• Developed the Boston Kerato- work formed the basis for ongoing of ophthalmology worldwide. Here are some of these outstanding achievements: prosthesis (Kpro), the world’s

clinical studies of novel therapies S first and most popular artificial to treat graft rejection and other cornea, with more than 5,000 inflammatory disorders, including implantations to date in dry eye disease, which affects mil- 50 countries. lions of people worldwide. •• Discovered the first drug to cure •• Demonstrated the protective the virus infection, Herpes Sim- role of certain molecules (called plex, which causes severe damage mucins) to prevent infections to the cornea. on the cornea and surrounding •• Elucidated the molecular and tissue. This key discovery had physiological mechanisms of cor- multiple crossovers to other areas neal swelling and edema that con- of investigation, including human tribute to corneal clouding. These reproduction and infectious discoveries laid the groundwork diseases. for many techniques currently used to restore corneal clarity and Retina visual acuity in patients. •• Isolated the gene governing reti- noblastoma, a potentially fatal eye tumor affecting young children. This gene is also a prototype for an entire class of genes relating to cancers of the breast, bone, blad- der, and lung. •• DiscoveredDI the role ofS vascularCOVERIE human eye (an array of 100 S MAKING A DIFFERENCE •• Pioneered the use of proton beam endothelial growth factor (VEGF) microelectrodes) to stimulate therapy for successfully treating in ocular neovascularization in residual elements of the retina in intraocular malignant melanoma two of the most common causes a patient with advanced retinal with minimal or no damage to sur- of blindness: AMD and diabetic degeneration. Optic Nerve/Glaucoma rounding tissue. retinopathy. •• Paul A. Chandler, MD, and W. •• Demonstrated (in postnatal mice) •• Validated and implemented the Morton Grant, MD, describe clini- successful full-length regenera- •• Isolated the gene that causes a •• Participated in the development first ocular telemedicine pro- form of retinitis pigmentosa, a he- of anti-VEGF drugs for treating gram—the Joslin Vision Network cal features of glaucoma, and form tion of the optic nerve. definitive concepts in the manage- reditary and degenerative blinding AMD and diabetic retinopathy. (JVN)—for early detection of dia- •• Identified several genetic, hor- ment of the disease. Their book disease of the retina. Given by intraocular injection, betic retinopathy. JVN nonmyd- monal, and environmental factors Chandler and Grant’s Glaucoma this new class of inhibitors has riatic images have been validated associated with various forms •• Made the first diagnosis of reti- remains an authoritative refer- been shown in clinical trials to for diabetic retinopathy severity of glaucoma, a diverse group of nopathy of prematurity, a form ence text since its first publication help 90 percent of patients avoid grading against the Early Treat- conditions that can potentially of blindness caused by excessive in 1965. amounts of oxygen given to pre- moderate vision loss, while one- ment Diabetic Retinopathy Study damage the optic nerve. third experienced gains in vision. protocol, which involves fundus •• Identified several genetic and mature babies. •• Identified novel targets for poten- photographs and clinical molecular mechanisms underly- •• In collaboration with Swedish col- tial neuroprotective strategies in •• Introduced scleral buckle surgery examinations. ing the pathology of pediatric leagues, developed an algorithm glaucoma management. for retinal detachments (to North Strabismus glaucoma. called WINROP; based on mea- •• Identified genetic pathways that America). •• Discovered seven different forms sures of postnatal weight gain, this increase the risk of advanced dia- of strabismus arising from a vari- •• Developed laser photocoagulation algorithm can predict retinopathy betic retinopathy. A collaboration ety of genetic errors in brainstem therapy, which revolutionized the of prematurity nine weeks before with the University of San Diego motor neuron development. diagnosis and treatment of diabet- development of disease. demonstrated that a polymor- This body of work defined a new ic retinopathy, and has remained phism in the promoter region of •• Identified the role of environmen- category of congenital disorders the gold standard of therapy for the erythropoietin gene increases tal factors in promoting AMD, and that leave children unable to move more than 25 years. the risk for proliferative diabetic how nutritional factors may lower their eyes in specific directions. retinopathy. •• Developed photodynamic therapy the risk of AMD. •• Discovered that earlier interven- (PDT) with verteporfin (Visu- •• Developed (with MIT and MGH •• Demonstrated the utility of tion in unilateral coronal syn- dyne®), the first FDA-approved researchers) optical coherence vitamin A palmitate in retinitis ostosis (by way of endoscopic drug treatment for neovascular tomography, the most widely used pigmentosa. strip craniectomy) can prevent “wet” age-related macular degen- and non-invasive imaging modal- sight-threatening strabismus and eration (AMD). •• Implanted the first microelec ity in retina. astigmatism. tronic retinal prosthesis in a 38 PEOPLE

& & CENTERS PARTNER

S COLLABORATING TO CURE OF

COLLA EXCELLENCE HMS Ophthalmology Centers of Core Concepts B ORATING Excellence drive collaboration From novel clinical and research partnerships to new •• Utilize inherent leadership and expertise to build the key educational venues, many exciting initiatives in recent structure, components, and mechanisms of each center

years are transforming “business as usual” within the for maximum results. CURE HMS Department of Ophthalmology. Contributing to this momentum, the HMS Department of Ophthalmol- •• Identify communication strategies that integrate aca- ogy has launched Centers of Excellence (COEs) in key demic, clinical, and research objectives, and spark cross- subspecialty areas that draw on the exceptional talent institutional involvement. and resources of the HMS community. These efforts are advancing scientific discovery, expand training •• Develop unified and readily accessible standards and opportunities, and bringing new innovations into the metrics to improve patient care across the HMS campus Patient Care Research clinic. COEs are underway in the areas of diabetic eye and to lead national benchmark standards of care. disease, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Preferred practices Basic cornea, and glaucoma. •• Establish, maintain, and share preferred practice pat- for disease management terns through an ongoing clinical quality program that Translational Personalized medicine “Momentous leaps in science, biotechnology, and utilizes robust, evidence-based surgical and outcomes Clinical medicine in the last decade have brought the future of review. Expanded services healthcare to our doorstep—creating unprecedented opportunities for advancement,” says Lloyd P. Aiello, •• Facilitate vital research, educational, and clinical part- Connect MD, PhD, HMS Ophthalmology Vice Chair for Centers nerships within HMS and in collaboration with commu- of Excellence and Director of the Beetham Eye Institute nity and academic institutions across the United States. at Joslin Diabetes Center. “Centers of Excellence allow us to lead by design and create communities of collabo- •• Expand training opportunities and boost recruitment Collaborate rators that will bring the next generation of advances to efforts through stimulating and supporting mentorship, fruition. COEs also provide the framework for moving resident, and fellowship programs. information and ideas across campus with improved speed and access, helping us to accelerate progress in all •• Create a focus for new funding opportunities that at- Discover aspects of our mission.” tract sponsorship from government, industry, foundation, and private donors. COEs integrate the clinical, research, and academic objectives of HMS’s six ophthalmology affiliates and As the HMS COEs continue to evolve, department broad faculty base of 140 full-time clinicians, scientists, Chair Joan Miller, MD, anticipates that they will be a and academicians—creating an information network global resource for innovation. “As our world becomes that links ideas, resources, and people in pursuit of com- increasingly connected, we need to embrace strategic mon goals. Each center is a catalyst for collaboration— partnerships that advance collaboration and connec- creating a multidisciplinary “think tank” that identifies tions in our three mission-critical areas,” she said. Education new training opportunities, broadens the scope of “COEs represent a scalable healthcare model that will research at every juncture, and elicits the highest bench- help forge these synergies and usher in advancements mark standards in all aspects of clinical care. that resonate here and around the world.” Patients/Public Trainees International 41 PEOPLE

CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE & PARTNER S Tear down those walls! COEs engender a disease-driven approach that break down traditional research silos, and engage basic COLLA researchers and clinicians scientists in direct and B focused dialogue. Pertinent clinical opportunities can ORATING Centers of excellence then be identified and moved from bench to bedside with greater speed. “At any given time, ophthalmology

faculty members are leading investigations for 50 to 75 HIGHLIGHTS CURE Focus for funding clinical trials in various phases, and pursuing vital grant Diabetic eye disease COEs create new funding opportunities in every aspect research,” notes Dr. Joan Miller, HMS Ophthalmology •• BEI clinical research program (DRCR.net) of the mission of the Department of Ophthalmology. For Chair. “COEs simplify our communication structure •• Joslin Vision Network (model for preferred practice example, researchers in the AMD Center of Excellence and open the floodgates for scientific inquiry and dis- patterns) conduct preclinical investigations using a variety of animal covery across the department in complimentary ar- •• Latino diabetes initiative models, and carry out small-scale clinical trials to establish a eas. What’s happening in AMD research, for example, foundation for proof-of-concept in humans In recent years, may yield critical insight into diabetic eye research, Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) work with these models has led to revolutionary treatments and vice versa. It may also embolden scientists to take •• Public symposia and outreach for macular degeneration, including the photodynamic their research in entirely new directions.” •• Biennial AMD International Symposium therapy and a number of antiangiogenic agents. Today, HMS •• Experimental models for ocular research investigators use models for angiogenesis, diabetic reti- Optimizing eye care nopathy, retinal detachment, glaucoma, intraocular tumors, Cornea The use of evidence-based data helps identify the best and uveitis to develop novel pharmaceutical, biological, and •• Translational research center eye care delivery systems. The Diabetes COE, for ex- gene-therapy approaches to treat eye diseases. Investiga- •• Ocular Surface Imaging Center ample, is using data-driven management practices for tors are also developing the first dry AMD primate model to •• Monthly cornea conference its acclaimed international imaging program, the Jos- better understand the pathophysiology of the disease, as lin Vision Network (JVN), to evolve standards across well as potential therapeutic targets. To learn more, contact Glaucoma other areas of diabetic eye disease. Lessons learned Kim Fechtel at [email protected]. •• Clinical/research faculty focus groups from the JVN can now be used to improve screening Making connections: •• State-of-the-art glaucoma laboratory techniques, rigorously validate imaging methods, COEs provide a scalable platform for expanding collaboration, education, •• Glaucoma COE newsletter establish detailed metrics, and engage in multi-insti- and training opportunities. For example, a monthly glaucoma focus group tutional collaboration. All of this information can be was the flashpoint for merging the research efforts of Louis Pasquale, fed continuously to other faculty engaged in related MD, from Mass. Eye and Ear and Emmanuel Buys, PhD, from Mass General. research within HMS and with outside collaborators. During a recent meeting, Dr. Buys spoke to the group about his research Delivering care in real time on a knockout mouse model that turned out to have direct relevance to In just one year, patient referrals to the department’s new Ocular Surface Dr. Pasquale’s epidemiology research on primary open-angle glaucoma. Imaging Center (OSIC) have increased ten-fold thanks to high-tech imaging Finding common ground, they teamed up with Schepens scientists Bruce equipment and enhanced diagnostic methods developed by OSIC Direc- Ksander, PhD, and Meredith Gregory-Ksander, PhD, to validate that the tor, Pedram Hamrah, MD. These optimized tools and techniques enable mouse model is applicable to POAG in humans. The group has submitted an real-time and non-invasive imaging, allowing our physicians to diagnose, R21 grant application to NIH. “This cross-fertilization of ideas is an excit- monitor, and track disease progression and treatments with unprecedent- ing hallmark of the glaucoma Center of Excellence,” says Dr. Pasquale. “We ed speed and precision. These methods also eliminate the need for invasive learn first-hand about ongoing work across the department, and how our biopsies and slow cultures, and reduce the wait time for results from three clinically relevant findings may have direct application to what our col- to seven days to less than 24 hours. In many cases, results can be read leagues are discovering in the lab.” during the patient’s visit. For thousands of patients each year, this means One size does NOT fit all better diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes. Ten years ago, the Human Genome Project provided a genetic blueprint Tools of the trade of the DNA code that ushered in a revolution in personalized medicine. Nidek Confoscan 4.0 and the Heidelberg-HRT 3 The goal at HMS is to capture genetic variations that contribute to human Rostock Cornea Module confocal microscopes; Haag- disease and use it to improve patient care for every disease we treat. COEs Streit IM 900 digital slit lamp camera, and a Optovue provide an integrated framework for delivering personalized medicine to Ocular Coherence Tomographer with cornea module. every patient. By merging clinical data (electronic medical records) with a biorepository of donor DNA and tissue samples, HMS clinician scientists can draw unprecedented insights as to how diseases manifest, and the best route to intervention based on a patient’s unique genetic and biological make-up. 42 PEOPLE the role of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration

& & (AMD). Integral to these studies was the groundbreaking PARTNER work of scientists at the Beetham Eye Institute (BEI) at the Joslin Diabetes Center. At BEI, research focuses on

S unraveling the molecular mechanisms responsible for diabetic eye diseases, and finding potential therapeutic targets that may lead to successful clinical treatments COLLA for patients with diabetic retinopathy, diabetic macular and progression of intermittent exotropia (wandering edema, and related disorders. Numerous studies fol- B ORATING eye) and determine the best method of managing the lowed—conducted at BEI and elsewhere—implicating Children’s Hospital Ophthalmology disease in young patients. Until now, there have been no VEGF and other pivotal compounds in the disease process. studies to verify the efficacy of current treatments,” says Despite the milieu of scientific discovery, there

TO Foundation and Mass. Eye and Ear

Dr. Kazlas. “Studies like this provide important public was no mechanism in place to quickly move data from CURE FORM a pediatric powerhouse health implications because they help establish stan- hypotheses and laboratory studies into multicenter In August 2009, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary dards for solving common childhood problems in eye clinical trials. Lloyd P. Aiello, MD, PhD, HMS Professor and the Children’s Hospital Ophthalmology Foundation disease using evidenced-based medicine.” of Ophthalmology and Director of BEI, realized the criti- (CHOF) combined their pediatric services, creating one Currently, more than 60 sites comprising 120 pedi- cal need for a standardized infrastructure and support of the most comprehensive pediatric ophthalmology atric ophthalmologists and optometrists in the United system, which could be used to mine and evaluate rap- networks in the country. Under this new partnership, States, Canada, and the United Kingdom participate in idly accumulating data, then conduct clinical trials using general pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus care the PEDIG network on various studies. rigorous scientific protocols. He founded the DRCR.net, at Mass. Eye and Ear is being provided by Children’s “Forward-thinking consortiums like PEDIG help a national collaborative network dedicated to facilitat- ophthalmologists, while Mass. Eye and Ear physicians generate new ideas that can then be pursued in a collab- ing multicenter clinical research for diabetic eye disease. offer subspecialty care in glaucoma and cornea disease orative, well-designed study. Integrating Mass. Eye and Supported through a cooperative agreement from the at Children’s Hospital Boston. Both HMS affiliates have Ear and CHOF pediatric services gives us the sizeable National Eye Institute and the National Institute of Dia- long cooperated on patient care, research and academic patient base required to participate, as well as the vital betes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the DRCR.net activities; this innovative clinical partnership stream- research resources and support staff we need to carry has grown to include 150 participating sites nationwide, lines patient care while broadening access to services, and out a long-term study,” noted Dr. Kazlas. including international participation from sites in India, more tightly integrates training and research activities. Melanie A. Kazlas, MD Scotland, and Denmark. Nearly 300 investigators from “Delivering the best possible care to every patient is Patient empowerment academic medical institutions as well as private commu- always our first priority,” notes HMS Ophthalmology Bringing CHOF to Mass. Eye and Ear also affords Instructor in Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School nity practice groups participate in the network, includ- Chief and Chair, Joan Miller, MD. “Children’s Hospital patients more opportunities to participate in ongoing one out of every three retinal specialists across the Boston has built one of the country’s premier practices ing investigations. Some patients, for example, have Medical Director, Children’s Hospital Ophthalmology Foundation, country. In its brief history, the DRCR.net has rapidly in ophthalmology. Integrating their depth of experience contributed clinical information in the form of blood, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary emerged as the premier clinical trial group in diabe- into our core services enables us to deliver seamless and tissue, and DNA samples that have helped to elucidate tes—mentioned in the U.S. Congressional Record—and integrated care to our most vulnerable patients.” the genetics of common forms of strabismus. Study par- Dr. Melanie Kazlas received her BS degree cum laude at Rensselaer Poly- lauded by the National Institute of Health as establish- “This partnership is a significant milestone in keep- ticipation is empowering for many patients whose vital technic Institute in 1987. Following completion of her MD in 1989 and an ing the paradigm for collaborative clinical trials. ing us a top-tier pediatric care provider,” said David contributions can help pave the way for new treatments internship in 1990, both at Albany Medical Center, Dr. Kazlas completed “Clinically rigorous testing requires large numbers Hunter, MD, PhD, Ophthalmologist-in-Chief at Chil- or lead to a cure for their disease. her residency in ophthalmology at Manhattan Eye, Ear and Throat Hospi- of patients and participation from large numbers of dren’s Hospital Boston. “It reinforces our already deep tal (MEETH). She went on to complete an ophthalmology and strabismus centers,” says Dr. Aiello, who has been recognized commitment to quality patient care by making our Enhancing resident education fellowship at MEETH in 1994. She served as Acting Director of the Pediatric internationally for his leadership in diabetic retinopathy world-class services increasingly accessible to patients, The clinical alliance between CHOF and Mass. Eye and Ophthalmology and Strabismus Service at Mass. Eye and Ear from 2006 research and served as the network’s inaugural chair. including treatment for the most complicated eye and Ear also has enhanced resident education with added until 2009, at which time she was appointed Medical Director of the Chil- “The DRCR network enables us to tap this vast pool of vision problems.” exposure to important pediatric ophthalmology and dren’s Hospital Ophthalmology Foundation at Mass. Eye and Ear. resources and, in short order, identify key clinical areas strabismus topics through lectures at both institutions. Dr. Kazlas provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for babies, that need to be addressed, recruit patient volunteers, Raising the bar on research The Pediatric Ophthalmology Visiting Professor Lecture children, and adults of all ages with strabismus (otherwise known as mis- and carry out high quality multicenter trials. In less than By pooling resources and a patient base that combines Series, organized by Dr. Anne Fulton, HMS Professor of aligned eyes or crossed eyes). In addition to pediatric and adult strabismus, a decade, this powerful means of collaboration has led to pediatric eye and adult strabismus cases, the new al- Ophthalmology, invites faculty who are leaders in the Dr. Kazlas specializes in amblyopia (commonly known as lazy eye), retinopa- remarkable clinical gains that have refined our knowledge liance also enhances investigative teamwork carried field of pediatric eye disease and strabismus to lecture thy of prematurity, and all other areas of pediatric ophthalmology. Excep- of diabetic eye disease and how we manage patients.” out internally, and brings more opportunity for the and interact with faculty, residents, and students. These tionally trained in delicate surgical techniques required for difficult cases of department—and patients—to participate in bench- lectures are televised remotely to Mass. Eye and Ear’s strabismus, Dr. Kazlas has earned a stellar reputation for her compassion- mark clinical studies on an international scale. Melanie main campus and CHOF’s Waltham location. ate and innovative diagnostic and treatment approaches. Kazlas, MD, Medical Director of the Children’s Hospi- Dr. Kazlas is an active health educator, and serves as a leading expert in DRCR.net: tal Ophthalmology Foundation at Mass. Eye and Ear, strabismus and pediatric ophthalmology for ABCNews.com. Dedicated to A model clinical research program describes one such study that involves the Pediatric Eye providing the pediatric community with the best care possible, Dr. Kazlas Tier 1 recruiter for multiple consecutive years, Disease Investigative Group (PEDIG), a collaborative DRCR.net proves the power has teamed with Mass. Eye and Ear’s Outreach staff to provide eye screen- and #1 nationally in quality in multiple consecutive network funded by the National Institute of Health that ings to at-risk pediatric populations at Boston’s Camp Harbor View and years (2010 statistics): facilitates multicenter clinical research in strabismus, of partnership Neighborhood House Charter School. A member of the New England •• 100% completion of primary outcome visits amblyopia and other eye disorders that affect children. Launched in September 2002, the Diabetic Retinopathy Ophthalmologic Society, Dr. Kazlas has also co-authored several papers •• 99% patient retention HMS Instructor in Ophthalmology, Suzanne John- Clinical Research Network (DRCR.net) was a timely including historical and current practices in pediatric intraocular lens •• 99% visit completion ston, MD, is Principal Investigator of a randomized clini- development. In prior decades, vigorous scientific implantation, ocular injuries in shaken baby syndrome, and diplopia after •• 93% on-time study visit completion cal trial comparing observation vs. occlusion therapy for investigations conducted by researchers in the HMS De- surgical repair of facial trauma. •• .02 protocols deviations per visit (average) intermittent exotropia. Using rigorous study protocols, partment of Ophthalmology and in laboratories across the study aims to better understand the natural history the globe had led to exciting breakthroughs elucidating 44 PEOPLE “TFOS embraces Harvard’s 1650 Charter and mission statement, in

& & that it strives to create knowledge, to advance the sciences, to educate PARTNER leaders and to pursue excellence in a spirit of productive cooperation.” —Dr. David Sullivan, TFOS President S COLLA

The underlying hypothesis of the study is that con- Dry Eye WorkShop Steering Committee (left B ORATING sanguineous families—compared to nuclear families— to right): front row, Drs. Michael Lemp (USA), United States and India partner may provide a more powerful way to identify genetic The Tear Film & Ocular Surface Anthony Bron (USA), Kazuo Tsubota (Japan) and David A Sullivan (USA); row 2, Janine Clayton factors responsible for quantitative ocular traits. For (USA), Gary Foulks (USA), Murat Dogru (USA);

TO to advance vision research Society builds a global eye

example, optic nerve size is a quantitative trait that is row 3, Kelly Nichols (USA), Ilene Gipson (USA), CURE As the world becomes increasingly connected, there is passed from generation to generation, and larger optic research community Debra Schaumberg (USA) and Stephen Pflug- a greater need to build viable global healthcare part- nerves may carry an increased risk of developing glau- felder (USA); row 4: Alan Tomlinson (UK) and nerships. In 2005, an initiative funded by the National coma. In the long term, this information may provide During the past several decades, a significant interna- J.Daniel Nelson (USA) Institute of Health led to one such collaboration: the US a rich source of genotype/phenotype data that can be tional research effort has focused on understanding INDO Joint Working Group, a vision research partner- mined for genetic insights into blinding diseases such the composition and regulation of the ocular surface ship between the U.S. National Eye Institute (NEI) and as glaucoma. Analysis of data gathered from the study is tear film. This effort was motivated by the recognition •• Creation of TFOS TV, which features many important the Indian government’s Department of Biotechnology currently underway. that the tear film is critical for maintaining corneal and diagnostic procedures cited in the DEWS Report. (DBT). Co-Chair of the initiative is Janey Wiggs, MD, Besides having the potential for advancing vision conjunctival integrity, protecting against microbial chal- PhD, Associate Director of the Howe Laboratory of science, the study demonstrates the growing impor- lenge, and preserving visual acuity. In addition, research •• Sponsorship of TOS, and facilitation of its growth Ophthalmology, Associate Chief for Clinical Research at tance of cross-border collaboration. “If our underly- has been stimulated by the knowledge that deficiency into the 3rd highest ranked ophthalmic journal in the Mass, Eye and Ear Infirmary, and Director of the Genet- ing hypothesis proves correct—that consanguineous of the tear film—commonly called “dry eye”—occurs in world. ics Diagnostics section of the department’s new Ocular pedigrees do, indeed, provide a more robust genetic innumerable individuals throughout the world and over Genomics Institute. As Co-Chair, Dr. Wiggs oversees the roadmap for flushing out faulty genes—then we’ll have 40 million people in the United States alone. Dry eye •• Organization of the International Workshop on U.S. effort, which includes research projects from physi- the information needed to accomplish two important may lead to desiccation of the ocular surface—poten- Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), and publica- cians and researchers from academic medical institu- goals: helping to pave the way for new diagnostic and tially resulting in visual disability and vision loss. tion of this TFOS MGD report in March 2011 in IOVS. tions throughout the U.S. therapeutic capabilities, and applying that knowledge to To promote further progress in this field of vision re- The TFOS MGD Report provides an evidence-based The exploratory vision science group first met in reduce the burden of blindness worldwide,” notes search, David A. Sullivan, PhD, HMS Associate Professor evaluation of meibomian gland structure and func- India in 2005 to identify and facilitate research oppor- Dr. Wiggs. “It’s a win-win for the U.S. and India, with in Ophthalmology, founded and created a global eye re- tion in health and disease. MGD is very likely the most tunities between the two countries. The group visited positive global consequences.” search community that became known as the Tear Film frequent cause of dry eye. The report required over three institutions that deliver high quality eye care and & Ocular Surface Society (TFOS). The mission of TFOS, 2 years of effort from more than 50 leading clinical conduct active, vibrant research programs: Aravind Eye which was incorporated as a non-profit organization in and basic research experts and is being translated into Hospital in Madurai, the largest eye care provider in the 2000, is to advance the research, literacy, and educa- 12 languages. world and a long-standing educational partner of the tional aspects of the field of tear film and ocular surface. HMS Department of Ophthalmology; Sankara Nethra- Since incorporation, TFOS has launched numerous •• Collaboration with the ARVO, EVER, MEACO, ICO, laya in Chennai; and LV Prasad Eye Institute in Hyder- initiatives, including: AAOpt, AOptA, BCLA, British Royal Society of Oph- abad. Through a series of meetings and workshops, the thalmology, Japanese Dry Eye Society, Asia Pacific U.S. team and Indian colleagues paired research inter- •• Organization of International Conferences on the Academy of Ophthalmology, International Sympo- ests and skills, which spanned several areas of the mo- TFOS in Maui in 2000, Puerto Rico in 2004, Taormina sium on Ocular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, lecular genetics of eye disease, including clinical aspects in 2007, and Florence in 2010. and São Paulo Federal University in organizing scien- and harmonization of clinical measurement techniques tific sessions. and terminology. Additional areas included translational •• Organization of a special experts’ meeting, entitled physiology and the identification, development, and “Global Treatments for Dry Eye Syndrome: An Unmet •• Awarding of more than 120 Young Investigator Travel exchange of research resources. Need,” in Florence in 2010. This meeting addressed Awards. Today, several projects are well underway. For her accepted and emerging clinical endpoints of dry eye part, Dr. Wiggs teamed with David Friedman, MD, with regulatory authorities from around the world. Dr. Sullivan, TFOS President, notes that “TFOS MPH, PhD, from Johns Hopkins University and Ronnie activities have significantly helped to promote increased George, MD, a clinician scientist from Sankara Nethrala- •• Publication of a 1,385-page book (Adv Exp Med Biol international awareness of external eye diseases, ya, to study the application of consanguineous pedigrees 2002, vol 506), to provide an educational foundation enhance governmental funding for tear film and ocular to mapping of complex genetic traits. Members of the U.S. Indo Joint Working Group and scientific reference for research on the tear film, surface research, stimulate the development of thera- In 2008, Dr. Wiggs received a grant for a National Eye ocular surface, and dry eye disease. peutic drugs and diagnostic devices, and influence the Institute study entitled India-US Genetics Study of Ocu- design and conduct of clinical trials of new and unique lar Quantitative Traits. The purpose of the project is to •• Organization of the International Dry Eye Workshop treatments for ocular surface disorders.” At present, determine the viability of consanguinity for quantitative (DEWS), and publication of the DEWS report in The TFOS has a distribution to thousands of basic scien- trait mapping, and to identify genes that are associated Ocular Surface (TOS). The DEWS Report updated the tists, clinical researchers and industry representatives with specific ocular characteristics that are risk factors definition, classification, and diagnosis of dry eye dis- in more than 80 countries. For more information, visit: for common, complex eye diseases. During the last sev- ease, and assessed its etiology, mechanism, global im- www.tearfilm.org. eral years, Drs. Wiggs and George have worked together pact, management, and therapy. This report, termed to develop project logistics and strategies and to execute the “Regulatory Bible” in Europe, required a 3-year each phase of the study, from identifying study partici- effort of more than 65 experts—21 who are associated pants, to collecting blood samples and analyzing data. with the HMS Department of Ophthalmology.