Our Research.
Iron.
Iron is essential for life. In physiologic conditions, iron can accept or donate electrons, serving as a cofactor in chemical reactions as fundamental as DNA synthesis and energy metabolism. But iron’s very source of utility, is also its source of toxicity.
Excess iron can trigger oxidative stress and cell death. For the past two decades we have studied the role of iron in age-related macular degeneration. To learn more head to pubmed via the link below or reach out directly though the contact us page.
Inflammation.
Iron is essential for life - in humans and bacteria. To combat bacterial invasion, eukaryotic cells sequester iron internally, starving extracellular pathogens of the iron necessary for survival.
But what happens as we age, and chronic inflammation occurs without bacteria to fight?
FAQs
What is the role of iron in AMD?
We have shown that iron is sufficient for retinal degeneration in a variety of human diseases and animal models of AMD. We hypothesize that iron is one of several damaging pathways in AMD and that reduction of iron-induced damage may delay or prevent disease progression.
What about clinical trials in humans?
We have not tested an iron chelator in a clinical trial (yet). But we are definitely interested in pursuing this.
How does iron accumulate in AMD eyes?
Although we have studied the result of iron accumulation in the eye, we do not have a clear understanding of how or why iron accumulates in AMD eyes. Current research focuses on how iron accumulates, how we can treat iron overload, and what role iron plays in AMD.
How do you study iron in the eye?
We use both traditional molecular biology - cell culture, Western analysis, qPCR - and cutting-edge techniques being developed here at Penn - magnetic retinal cell sorting, iPS retinal cells, iCP-MS, and scanning laser ophthalmoscopy.
Is iron accumulation unique to AMD?
We are currently engaged in multiple collaborations to study the role of iron in other neurodegenerative diseases. We are investigating whether mechanisms of iron accumulation are similar across neurodegenerative diseases and information about each disease can be applied to others.
Are you looking for new lab members?
Always. The Dunaief lab is looking for enthusiastic, talented new members at the postdoctoral, graduate, and undergraduate levels. All lab members meet with Dr. Dunaief weekly, work as part of a highly collaborative, upbeat team, and are encouraged to share their ideas to enhance existing projects or develop new, exciting directions. Reach out on our contact page if you’re interested!
Protecting the retina with novel therapies.
Oxidative stress plays a significant role in many eye-related diseases, such as age-related macular degeneration. One method we've explored to shield the eye from this stress is by administering a modified form of a common eye lipid, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), to mice. In 2024, Dr. Dunaief presented some of our latest findings on this promising therapeutic approach.