February 16, 2007

MGH and Schepens explore partnership

The MGH and the Schepens Eye Research Institute have entered into talks to explore the possibility of a formal relationship. Scientists from the Schepens Institute, located on Staniford Street, and the MGH have collaborated for years on ocular research. However, a more official connection could allow both institutions to undertake more and better research endeavors, says Michael Gilmore, president and chief executive officer of Schepens.

According to Gilmore, the potential connection between the two institutions would break down barriers in the study of vision, because "broad-based collaborations involving multiple disciplines are opening new doors in biomedical research." For example, geneticists recently discovered a correlation between macular degeneration — the leading cause of vision loss and blindness in adults over age 65 — and a type of inflammation. It is through this sort of cooperation that scientists hope to continue making advances against diseases like macular degeneration and glaucoma, diseases which "don't lend themselves to the traditional approach of 'one investigator, one problem,' "says Gilmore.

Peter L. Slavin, MD, MGH president, agrees that Schepens' research program would align with research activities at the MGH. "The ongoing work at Schepens dovetails beautifully with programs at the MGH," Slavin says. "We are excited about the possibilities that a closer relationship would offer in expanding and advancing our collective scientific efforts."