The human macula is a region of the retina that includes several specialisations not present in nonprimate retina and which together enable us to see detail. Understanding the development and ageing of the macula and how this unique structure makes humans vulnerable to degenerative disease is the principle aim of our research into development and ageing.

The fovea is at the geometric centre of the macula and is identifiable by a number of structural modifications including: (1) an absence of a direct blood supply from the retinal circulation, (2) the presence of a pit which thins the retina locally, (3) a focal concentration of a class of colour sensitive photoreceptors (cones) and (4) the inclusion of specialised circuitry which conserves the electrical responses of individual cones.

Few groups internationally are applying modern molecular tools to the investigation of primate retinal development and human retinal disease. We have developed new approaches to investigate the biology of the macula, our focus being to identify the unique molecular profiles associated with the unique anatomy and physiology of the macula and fovea. Better understanding the normal processes of development and ageing in the retina and choroid also provides insight into the pathogenesis of primary eye tumours.

In particular, we are studying retinoblastoma (Rb) (derived from retinal neuroblasts) and ocular melanoma (affecting choroid, ciliary body or iris); these are the most common primary intraocular eye cancers in children and adults respectively. We are investigating the mechanisms controlling cell proliferation, cell death and tumour invasion and angiogenesis, in order to better understand the pathogenesis of these tumours. Combined clinical and laboratory research provides an understanding of the biology of these tumours and may improve the rationale for treatment. This is especially important given the morbidity associated with enucleation, the side effects of current therapies, particularly radiation, and the high incidence of untreatable metastases in ocular melanoma.