Tannishtha Sethi
Pronouns: she/her
Research Mentor(s): Yannis Paulus
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences / Medicine
Program:
Authors: Tannishtha Sethi, Phuc Nguyen, Yannis Paulus
Session: Session 1: 9:00 am – 9:50 am
Poster: 94
Abstract
Choroidal neovascularization (CNV) is the leading cause of vision loss and blindness from age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and can often lead to vision loss, blindness, and the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the eye. Treatments exist for CNV, but early diagnosis and prompt initiation of treatment is imperative to optimize patient vision and outcomes. The absence of effective imaging for early diagnosis necessitates innovative approaches, and this project explores the use of photoacoustic laser imaging coupled with gold nanoparticles as a way to diagnose AMD early. Building on previous research, this project seeks to expand knowledge on diagnosing and treating CNV and AMD. The methodologies employed involve in vivo experiments with over 40 rabbits, focusing on careful animal handling, proper preparation, and the administration of anesthetic. While success has been observed in in vitro work, the transition to in vivo experiments is ongoing. Preliminary results demonstrate promising outcomes and success of the treatment in detecting CNV in rabbit eyes, indicating the potential of photoacoustic microscopy (PAM) and optical coherence tomography (OCT), alternatively referred to as laser imaging, along with gold nanochains as contrast agents. Conclusions drawn from data extracted from images contribute to the understanding of CNV and AMD and inform potential treatments. The overarching conclusion is that the developed therapy holds significant potential for real-world application, motivating future endeavors such as clinical trials. The broader context of the research encompasses various scientific disciplines, including nanotechnology, lasers, stem cell culture, and animal handling, all working towards the ultimate goal of developing treatments for global use. Ultimately, the project aims to contribute to advancements in clinical settings for the benefit of individuals worldwide grappling with these debilitating eye conditions.
