We have both clinical (directly patient-oriented) and basic (laboratory-oriented) research programs. Our basic research laboratories are located just above the main patient care, surgical and diagnostic areas. This proximity creates an excellent environment for collaboration. Established in 1998, the Ligon Research Center of Vision is dedicated to restoration of vision in the blind. The research focus is on artificial vision techniques that may include stimulation of the retina, stimulation of the visual cortex in the brain, or other novel techniques yet to be developed.

Basic Science – The basic science researchers at Kresge hold a faculty appointment within Wayne State University School of Medicine’s Department of Ophthalmology. The researchers work closely with colleagues in Anatomy/Cell Biology, Pharmacology and other departments.

Our laboratory researchers have the unique opportunity to add a human dimension to their work by examining the clinical pathology of eye diseases and disorders. Together, clinical and laboratory researchers establish a dialogue, debate issues and challenge each other to develop new research skills that directly affect patient outcomes. Clinician Researchers – Because our clinician researchers work directly with patients, many of their research interests focus on improved treatments, surgical techniques and preventive measures for difficult eye conditions such as diabetic retinopathy; glaucoma; cataracts; hereditary diseases; retinal detachment and degeneration; neuro-ophthalmic diseases; transplantation of corneas; refractive errors; abnormal cell growth; vascular endothelial growth factors; and cytomegalovirus, or CMV retinitis.

Many factors come together to make Kresge Eye Institute one of the premier vision research centers in the nation. As a part of Wayne State University, the institute shares in the university’s prestigious status as a Carnegie Foundation Research University. Wayne State is among just 2.4 percent of American universities classified as such, based on a broad range of baccalaureate programs, a firm focus on graduate education and a high priority to research. Wayne State University School of Medicine ranked 25th of the country’s 125 medical schools in the latest ranking by the National Science Foundation. The rankings reflect total research expenditures of $81 million to School of Medicine faculty, accounting for approximately 73 percent of the University’s total research expenditures.

Private philanthropy and corporate donations also play an important role in Kresge’s success, supporting critical research and treatment efforts. Most significant, perhaps, is the dedication of our researchers in the clinic and laboratory. They continue to ask questions and look for answers – to ensure that all patients, even those with the most difficult vision problems, receive the most effective treatment available anywhere. To support Kresge research, please contact our Director of Development & Alumni Affairs, Jon Goldstein, at jgoldste@med.wayne.edu.

Here at Kresge Eye Institute, our physicians are currently participating in multiple research studies to investigate new treatments for various eye conditions, which include: • Age-Related Macular Degeneration • Branch Retinal Vein Occlusion • Central Retinal Vein Occlusion • Diabetic Macular Edema • Diabetic Retinopathy • Retinal Detachments • Uveitis • Glaucoma (various forms): o Open Angle Glaucoma o Angle Closure Glaucoma o Low Tension Glaucoma