See Vision Research in Action
The Science of Saving Sight
Dr. T. Michael Redmond came to NEI to identify a critical link in our visual cycle. What he discovered became the first FDA-approved gene therapy.
Discovering New Treatments for Genetic Eye Disease
Meet Dr. Shannon Boye, a genetic researcher at the University of Florida. Dr. Boye is one of many NEI-funded scientists developing new tools to prevent and repair vision loss through ocular gene therapy.
Using AI-Powered Imaging to Transform Vision Care
Dr. Johnny Tam and his team are changing the way the world thinks about retinal imaging. Through AI and adaptive optics, they’re bringing cellular-level imaging to more patients. The result? Earlier detection of retinal disease, and better outcomes for patients.
Where Our Research Is Making a Difference
Thanks to continued congressional and public support, our national investment in vision research has led to major advances in the prevention and treatment of eye diseases and visual disorders, including preventing and reversing vision loss, understanding and treating rare eye diseases, developing new treatments and technology, and educating the public.
Read more examples of how we continue to pioneer new advances in the prevention and treatment of vision loss:
Preventing Vision Loss
NEI has made great strides discovering and improving strategies for preventing vision loss. Over a decade of research confirms the benefit of vitamin supplements for slowing progression of age-related macular degeneration (ARMD).
Explore strategies for preventing vision loss
Learn how vitamin supplements slow progression of ARMD
Understanding and Treating Eye Diseases
Decades of research have led to new insights about the structure and function of the eye as well as major treatment improvements for glaucoma, uveitis, retinopathy of prematurity, childhood amblyopia, ARMD, and diabetic retinopathy.
Learn how retinal cell research helped improve our understanding of the eye
Enhancing Vision Rehabilitation Opportunities
NEI-funded research is exploring how new technology can help make life easier for individuals living with vision loss. Mobile apps are helping blind travelers navigate public transportation, free online tutorials bring cooking lessons to those with vision impairments, and 3D printing is making scientific careers accessible to everyone, regardless of level of eyesight.
Explore advances in:
Driving the Future of Vision Research Innovation
Scientists are leveraging the next generation of technology to detect signs of disease earlier and more accurately. Artificial intelligence is making retinal imaging 100 times faster, detecting retinopathy of prematurity at near perfect rates, and advancing the possibilities of drug delivery for glaucoma patients.
See the innovations in:
More from NEI
-
Research Priorities
Our research priorities support challenging, high-impact vision research through major programs that aim to understand, treat, and cure eye diseases using advanced technologies and large-scale data.
-
Our Mission
Our mission is to eliminate vision loss and improve quality of life through vision research. Learn how we’re bringing us closer to a world without vision loss by advancing the science that safeguards our sight.