Innovative glaucoma research award

The Glaucoma Research Foundation (GRF) awarded the 2010 Shaffer Prize for Innovative Glaucoma Research to Kate Keller, PhD. Dr Keller is Research Assistant Professor, Department of Ophthalmology at Casey Eye Institute in Portland, Oregon.

Kate Keller, PhD, was awarded the Shaffer Prize for her research investigating the role of Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in fluid outflow resistance in the trabecular meshwork of the eye. In primary open-angle glaucoma, there is increased resistance to aqueous flow through the trabecular meshwork, which results in increased intraocular pressure (IOP). GAGs are long sugar chains synthesized by the addition of sugar residues by specific enzymes, and are a likely source of outflow resistance. Experimental results from this study could potentially lead to new therapies for lowering eye pressure in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma.

Dr. Keller published her results in the scientific journals Investigative Ophthalmology and Visual Science and Experimental Eye Research. A native of Scotland, Dr. Keller received her PhD from the University of Edinburgh and obtained postdoctoral training as a Fellow in the laboratories of Dr Nick Morris and Dr Lynn Sakai.