Gregory Van Stavern, MD

Professor of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences

Neuro-inflammation in patients with optic neuritis (ON) affects neuronal activity within visual pathways Read More

Neuro-inflammation in patients with optic neuritis affects neuronal activity within visual pathways

We are seeking to understand how neuro-inflammation in patients with optic neuritis (ON) affects neuronal activity within visual pathways. Our preliminary studies using resting-state functional MRI (rs-fMRI) to assess neuronal function in the visual system of patients with acute ON demonstrate reduced connections within visual networks.

We are studying whether alterations in visual pathway connections in the brain are related to visual dysfunction over time.  Patients with ON and matched controls are examined using rs-fMRI and evaluated using several visual function measures, including acuity tests, optical coherence tomography and visual function questionnaires.  These investigations may lend insight into how the brain responds to inflammatory injury during diseases such as multiple sclerosis.