Corneal Physiology Laboratory
>The cornea is the principal refractive element in the eye; corneal transparency and shape determine its optical qualities. Corneal epithelial edema, stromal edema and shape anomalies can independently or collectively degrade visual performance in the form of increased light scatter and optical aberrations due to irregular astigmatism. The central theme of the research in Dr. Stephen D. Klyce's laboratory is the application of mathematical models that integrate the thermodynamic description of corneal epithelial, stromal and endothelial transport properties into a model for the understanding of corneal hydration control. This is combined with methods to classify shape anomalies and means to assess the contributions of the corneal surface to visual optics through the analysis of corneal topography and wavefront data.
To accomplish this aim, Dr. Klyce's laboratory is conducting computer simulations matching the corneal response to epithelial trauma that evokes the early inflammatory response signaled by transient edema. This work is done in rabbits. To examine the contribution of corneal shape to visual optics and pathology, artificial intelligence methods for the classification and interpretation of corneal topography and ocular wavefront data are being utilized and numerical constructs to evaluate corneal surface optical quality and ocular wavefront data as it relates to visual acuity in patients are being developed. Using this multi pronged approach, we will better understand the role of the cornea in human visual performance.