Ophthalmology Research
The Vision Center is globally recognized as a leader in pediatric ophthalmology research. We use a combination of laboratory science—to look at eye disease at a molecular level—and clinical research to advance our understanding and treatment of pediatric eye conditions.
Our expert ophthalmologists conduct research, cementing a close connection between the research we perform and the care we provide. Your child directly benefits from our achievements in the lab.
Our Ophthalmology Research Interests
At Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, we are working to advance our understanding of childhood vision and improve the care we offer. Our researchers are passionate about ophthalmology. They are committed to finding ways to personalize each child’s treatment.
Our ophthalmology research interests include:
- Expanding gene therapy: There are more than 300 genetic mutations associated with hereditary retinal disease. Our researchers are finding ways to treat those mutations by fixing, replacing or supporting those dysfunctional genes. The Center for Personalized Medicine allows our researchers to perform molecular and genetic testing to create targeted gene therapies.
- Personalizing treatment: Our advanced laboratory expertise helps us personalize the care we offer. We create mini replicas of retinas to better understand retinal disease. Our researchers also study donated liquid biopsy samples to learn more about the disease.
- Preventing eye disease: Identifying children with a higher risk for vision diseases would help us prevent it or provide treatment earlier. We are screening children for keratoconus (corneal thinning), determining risk factors for optic nerve hypoplasia (ONH) and working to sequence DNA to better understand retinoblastoma.
- Understanding the psychosocial impact of eye disorders: Misaligned eyes and other vision disorders can have damaging effects on a child’s mental health and quality of life. We are learning more about those impacts. We aim to offer the best possible mental health support and resources for children.
Recognized Leaders in Pediatric Ophthalmology Innovation
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles is committed to research and innovation. We have an in-house research accelerator. It allows researchers to coordinate their research and data to increase the potential of their research.
We are renowned for:
- Being the first center on the West Coast selected to deliver FDA-approved gene therapy to children with inherited retinal disease
- Pioneering the use of liquid biopsy to diagnose retinoblastoma
- Sequencing and identifying a human cancer gene in retinoblastoma
- Serving as the global coordinating center for 14 hospitals worldwide working to sequence children’s DNA to identify children at high risk for retinoblastoma
Ophthalmology Clinical Trials
Our research translates to the care we offer. Our patients have access to novel treatments whenever possible through clinical trials.
Clinical trials take place through The Saban Research Institute of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. If you are considering a clinical trial for your child or want to learn more, read our clinical trial FAQs.
Research Faculty
- Jesse Berry, MD
- Mark Borchert, MD
- Melinda Chang, MD
- David Cobrinik, MD, PhD
- Biraj Mahato, PhD, MS
- Aaron Nagiel, MD, PhD
- Liya Xu, PhD
Comprehensive Pediatric Vision Care
We offer specialized and compassionate care for your child’s eyesight. Learn more about how we diagnose and treat eye problems at the Vision Center.
Contact us
To schedule an appointment at the Vision Center, call 323-361-2347.
