AAXON: Al and Axonal BiomechaniX to unveil injury mechanisms in Optic Neuropathies
Do the axons in our eyes suffer glaucoma damage because they are being stretched, pinched, twisted, or bent from a change in eye pressure over a long period of time? By employing advanced engineering and AI tools, our research will study the mechanics of living human axons to potentially identify the primary mechanisms and locations of injury. This project could significantly advance our understanding of glaucoma's complex mechanisms and lead to the development of diagnostic and prognostic tools that would benefit patients globally.
Bio:
Dr. Michaël J.A. Girard is currently an Associate Professor in the Departments of Ophthalmology (Emory) and Biomedical Engineering (Emory/GTech) where he heads the Ophthalmic Engineering & Innovation Laboratory (OEIL). Dr. Girard’s lab (OEIL) is positioned at the exciting intersection of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Physics (with a focus on biomechanics), with applications in Ophthalmology. His research focuses on optic neuropathies (including glaucoma), but also covers myopia and neurological disorders. Dr. Girard’s research has remained translational, and he is the founder of the start-up company Abyss Processing Pte Ltd, which provides 3D AI solutions to simplify and improve glaucoma diagnosis & prognosis. Dr. Girard has authored 160+ papers in top Ophthalmology and Engineering journals, has given 80+ invited talks, has received 40+ research grants & 20+ research awards. As a PI, he has received more than $9M in research funding, and he has licensed 5 technologies to local and international MedTech companies.