Expertise

My research focuses on the application of chemical biology approaches to problems in ocular cancer, specifically retinoblastoma and ocular neovascularization. We investigate the molecular development of retinoblastoma, in particular the role of KIF14 (an oncogene we identified) in this and other cancers. In the neovascularization context, we develop novel antiangiogenic small molecules, and we identified the proteins ferrochelatase and soluble epoxide hydrolase as targets of antiangiogenic agents and previously overlooked angiogenesis mediators. Ongoing work focuses on dissecting the role of these proteins in neovascularization, and developing new ways to target them therapeutically.

Specifically, we are working to find novel, small-molecule therapeutic approaches and targets for age-related macular degeneration and other neovascular eye diseases. We are also interested in understanding the biology of, and developing potential therapies for, the pediatric ocular cancer retinoblastoma.

Active Research:

  • Novel Antiangiogenic Compounds
  • KIF14 as a Novel Oncogene

Research: Complication of Diabetes and Obesity


Expertise:

  • Neurodegenerative Disorders Research
  • Ocular Neurobiology Research

The Corson Lab studies: neovascularization; abnormal blood vessel growth in the eye, which is a key feature of diseases like age-related macular degeneration; diabetic retinopathy; retinopathy of prematurity; and cancers of the eye. The lab is interested in finding new pathways that regulate blood vessel growth and targeting these with new chemicals that could be the basis for drugs; and working with collaborators to formulate and test potential therapies.

Keywords: Retina Research

Communities
Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Oncology, Ophthalmology, Ophthalmology, Pharmacology, Cellular Biochemistry, Neuroscience, Molecular Biochemistry, Toxicology
Degrees
PhD, University of Toronto, Molecular Genetics, 2007
MSc, University of Toronto, Neuroscience, 2002
BSc, University of Toronto, Molecular Genetics and Molecular Biology, 1999