Gene Therapy Updates for Inherited Retinal Dystrophies

Authors

  • Melissa Lu, MD Department of Ophthalmology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec Department of Ophthalmology, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Quebec
  • Daniel Milad, MD Department of Ophthalmology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec Department of Ophthalmology, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Quebec
  • Cynthia X. Qian, MD, FRCSC Department of Ophthalmology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec Department of Ophthalmology, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Quebec Department of Ophthalmology, Hôpital Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec

Abstract

Inherited retinal dystrophies (IRDs) encompass a group of genetically diverse disorders, each uniquely influencing distinct retinal cell pathways and retinal areas. IRDs currently affect an estimated 5.5 million individuals worldwide, exerting a profound impact on the quality of life of those affected. Depending on the mutated gene, typical presentations often manifest as colour or night blindness, or peripheral vision blindness progressing to complete blindness. Consequently, patients grappling with IRDs face not only the physical challenges of their condition, but also endure significant psychosocial and economic repercussions.

Author Biographies

Melissa Lu, MD , Department of Ophthalmology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec Department of Ophthalmology, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Quebec

Dr. Melissa Lu is currently a first-year ophthalmology resident at the University of Montreal, where she also obtained her medical degree.

Daniel Milad, MD, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec Department of Ophthalmology, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Quebec

Dr. Daniel Milad is a third-year ophthalmology resident at the University of Montreal in Montreal, Canada. Dr. Milad completed his medical degree at Laval University. His research interests are centered around the integration of new technologies in ophthalmology, with a particular focus on the application of artificial intelligence and extended reality in vitreoretinal surgical and medical conditions. His work was recognized at the University of Montreal’s 34th Ophthalmology Research Day with the Roch Gagnon Podium Presentation award and at the 2023 Retina Case Conference Canada with the Best Medical Retina Presentation award. Dr. Milad’s academic contributions, including several publications and reviews in peer-reviewed journals, reflect his dedication to the evolving landscape of ophthalmological practice and research.

Cynthia X. Qian, MD, FRCSC, Department of Ophthalmology, University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec Department of Ophthalmology, Hôpital Maisonneuve-Rosemont, Montreal, Quebec Department of Ophthalmology, Hôpital Sainte-Justine, Montreal, Quebec

Dr. Cynthia X. Qian is an Associate Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Montreal, where she is also Chief of the Retina Service. She is the Vice President of the Canadian Retina Society, the chair of Royal College Retina AFC Committee, and the CPD Council Chair for the Canadian Ophthalmological Society. As an FRQS clinical research scholar, her research focuses on pediatric retinal diseases, therapies in inherited retinal diseases, and clinical trials in age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Cynthia has garnered notable accolades beyond her contributions to academia,. In 2018, she was honoured as “The Young Professional of the Year” by the Young Chamber of Commerce of Montreal. In 2019, she was recognized as one of Canada’s Top 40 under 40, and in 2021, she earned distinction as one of the top 5 early-career physicians of the year by the Collège des Médecins.

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Published

2024-02-28

How to Cite

1.
Lu M, Milad D, Qian CX. Gene Therapy Updates for Inherited Retinal Dystrophies. Can Eye Care Today [Internet]. 2024 Feb. 28 [cited 2024 Dec. 30];3(1):4–11. Available from: https://canadianeyecaretoday.com/article/view/3-1-lu_et_al

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Volume 3, Issue 1, February 2024

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