Laboratory of Tongalp H. Tezel, MD

Welcome to Tongalp H. Tezel's lab homepage. Our lab is part of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. It's located in The Kentucky Lions Eye Care Center at University of Louisville.

Dr. Tezel has been intensely involved in cutting-edge retinal research including the development of retinal transplantation techniques and innovative treatment modalities for age-related macular degeneration. His laboratory is currently focused on investigating the molecular mechanisms of various retinal diseases using advanced experimental techniques, such as proteomic analysis.

This site contains more detailed description of our research projects, and introduction to members of the lab, reprints of all of our publications and other useful links and information.

Tongalp H. Tezel, M.D.

Dr. Tezel's main clinical interest is focused on the surgical and medical treatment of vitreoretinal diseases. Vitreous is the gel that fills the center of the eye and attaches firmly to the retina which is the light-sensitive inner lining of the eye. Retina converts the light into nerve signals and sends them along the optic nerve to the brain where these signals are decoded to form visual perception. Diseases affecting the retina and vitreous manifest themselves with significant visual problems since disorders of the retina do not allow the eye to communicate with the brain. Some examples of such diseases include age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, macular holes, epiretinal membranes, retinal detachment, vein occlusions and ocular tumors. Treatment of these disorders may include the use of lasers and surgical means, as well as application of certain medications. Several clinical trials have formed the scientific basis for treatment guidelines and outcome expectations for each of these disorders. Dr. Tezel's clinical practice involves the most updated medical and surgical care for these diseases combined with an individualized treatment plan for his patients.