The Visual Neurophysiology Laboratory at CHLA is headed by pediatric neuro-ophthalmologists, Melinda Chang, MD, and Mark Borchert, MD. Our research focuses on understanding the visual system in children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), in particular cortical/cerebral visual impairment (CVI) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
The goals of our lab are to characterize visual function in children with NDDs and understand how visual disorders impact behavior and development in these patients. Ultimately, we aim to identify targeted interventions that improve both visual function and quality of life in children with NDDs.
Our studies incorporate eye tracking, electrophysiology (visual evoked potentials), neuroimaging, functional vision testing, and developmental assessments. Through our collaboration with the SAIL Laboratory at USC, we are pioneering the application of artificial intelligence techniques to pediatric neuro-ophthalmologic research. Additional collaborators include the KiNDD Laboratory, the Fernandez Laboratory, the Lepore Laboratory and the Neuropsychology Core at CHLA.
Funding
We are currently funded to conduct research on children with cortical/cerebral visual impairment, autism spectrum disorder, and 15q disorders (Angelman syndrome and dup15q).
- Cortical/cerebral visual impairment. We have separate studies evaluating each of the following for assessment of CVI. Participants may enroll in multiple studies if eligible.
- Eye tracking
- Sweep visual evoked potentials (VEP)
- CVI Range-CR (CVI Range for Clinical Research)
- Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Autism spectrum disorder
- Angelman syndrome and dup15q
Collaborate with us
We are always interested in new participants and collaborators! Please contact us if you would like to participate in a study or have an idea for a collaboration (dcontractor@chla.usc.edu).
