Rachana Haliyur, M.D., Ph.D., a second-year vitreoretinal fellow at the U-M Kellogg Eye Center, has received a grant from the VitreoRetinal Surgery Foundation to support her research on two eye conditions: epiretinal membranes (ERM) and full-thickness macular holes (FTMH). Both conditions contribute to central visionimpairment and distortion and occur commonly in adults as they age. “This project aims to better understand epiretinal membranes, which are layers of cells that grow over the surface of the retina and can cause it to wrinkle; as well as full-thickness macular holes, which are literal holes that form in the central part of the retina,” says Nita Valikodath, M.D., M.S., Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, and Dr. Haliyur’s mentor for the grant. “Traditionally, scientists have believed these conditions had minimal impact on the vitreous, the clear, gel-like substance inside the eye. Now, new research suggests there may be unique changes and inflammation within the vitreous in patients with these disorders.” Until recently, little has been understood about the molecular dynamics between the vitreous and retina. “I am grateful for the support, as receiving this grant allows me to advance our understanding of how the vitreous and ocular inflammation contribute to this common retinal condition,” says Dr. Haliyur. Drawing on a large collection of patient eye samples, the research team is looking for specific proteins and signs of inflammation in the vitreous of people undergoing surgery for ERM and FTMH. “We hope to learn more about how these diseases develop,” she adds. This research may help physicians better understand why some people develop these conditions, and it could reveal new ways to prevent or treat them. It could also lead to more personalized treatments, such as targeting specific types of inflammation to prevent or halt vision loss before surgery is needed. “Ultimately, we hope this research will move us closer to truly individualized care for people with retinal diseases,” says Dr. Haliyur.