Sayoko E. Moroi, MD, PhD

Research Summary

Molecular pharmacology of glaucoma medications; aqueous humor dynamics; pharmacogenetics; genetics; glaucoma treatment and surgery outcomes

Glaucoma is one of several eye diseases in which individuals may progress to vision loss as a consequence of limitations in current treatments. Some specific treatment limitations include patient compliance, poor response to medication, drug-related side effects, unaffordable health care cost, and challenging surgical procedures. The goal of Dr. Moroi’s laboratory is to develop more effective interventions for glaucoma and to prevent patients from progressing to an advanced stage of vision loss. 

1. Dr. Moroi's primary interest is in translational research which has direct implications for improving patient care and treatment outcomes. 
2. It is well known that patients vary in their response to medications and their side effects. It is important to understand the mechanisms for these variable responses. Dr. Moroi uses pharmacogenetic approaches to determine whether a patient's response to medication is affected by specific gene variations, called single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Using fluorophotometry to measure aqueous humor flow, she can compare interindividual variation in this physiological trait and variation in response to glaucoma medications. This research will ultimately allow physicians to determine the optimal medical treatment for the patient with glaucoma, perhaps using a gene chip platform.