Dr. Douglas Vollrath

Biography

Douglas Vollrath is a Professor in the Department of Genetics at Stanford University, with courtesy appointment in the Department of Ophthalmology. His research focuses on understanding a variety of eye-related diseases through genetic analysis, investigating the molecular mechanisms that underlie normal eye function and disease pathogenesis. His laboratory's work includes studying retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and the processes relevant to human health and disease. Specifically, research investigates mitochondrial dysfunction in retinal degenerative diseases and its connections to molecular pathways, including mTOR signaling. Furthermore, his studies on phagocytosis in the RPE examine critical mechanisms for the maintenance of photoreceptor cells, identifying factors such as the receptor tyrosine kinase MERTK, which has been implicated in retinal degenerative diseases like retinitis pigmentosa. Vollrath has been actively involved in various academic appointments and advisory boards, including serving as a regular member of the NIH Biology Visual System Study Section and on the Scientific Advisory Board of the Foundation Fighting Blindness.

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