From childhood inspiration to scientific innovation
A journey in eye research
With expertise in optics, biochemistry, biomechanics, nanotechnology and cell biology, Professor Barbara Pierscionek is leading research into eye health and new technologies for sight improvement.
At ARU, Barbara is a member of our Medical Technology Research Centre. In this article, we take a look at her journey from an early interest in Maria Skłodowska-Curie, to pioneering research.
Background and motivation
Professor Barbara Pierscionek's journey into the world of scientific research began at the tender age of eight when she read the biography of one of the world’s great scientists, Maria Skłodowska-Curie. Sharing a Polish heritage and a passion for physics and chemistry, Professor Pierscionek was inspired by Sklodowska-Curie's dedication and achievements. This early inspiration set her on a path to becoming a scientist, with a particular fascination for the eye. The complexity of vision, the importance of sight, and the multidisciplinary nature of studying the eye captivated her interest.
"Professor Pierscionek's research aims to address critical gaps in our understanding of the structure and function of the eye, particularly how these change with age and disease."
Research focus
Professor Pierscionek's research aims to address critical gaps in our understanding of the structure and function of the eye, particularly how these change with age and disease. Her work on the eye lens is part of a larger program focused on protein-folding diseases and developing novel treatments for common eye conditions like cataracts using nanotechnology. By studying the optical, biological, and biomechanical aspects of the anterior eye, Professor Pierscionek's research contributes to our understanding of how images are processed by the retina and the brain.
Methodology and challenges
Professor Pierscionek employs advanced techniques such as optical measurements at the world's largest synchrotron (a type of particle accelerator), computational modelling, and cell culture methods. Her scientific journey has not been without challenges, one of the most significant was maintaining her focus on eye lens research despite a decline in interest and funding. However, her perseverance has paid off, leading to renewed interest in this field.
"Research has led to groundbreaking discoveries [and] her findings have the potential to revolutionise treatments for cataracts."
Significant findings and impact
Professor Pierscionek's research has led to groundbreaking discoveries, including being the first to conduct measurements of eye optics from the earliest developmental stages possible, and investigating the growth of the eye lens from embryonic stages to adulthood in various species. Her findings have the potential to revolutionise treatments for cataracts, offering non-surgical alternatives and aiding the developing world. Understanding how proteins in the lens change with age and how this affects the optics of the eye and ultimately leads to diseases could pave the way for new therapeutic approaches.
Collaboration and future directions
Professor Pierscionek's work is supported by numerous collaborators across Europe, Asia, and the USA, including academic and industrial partners.
Looking ahead, her research will continue to explore the relationship between eye structure and function, with the long-term goal of developing effective, non-surgical treatments for cataracts and advancing retinal implant technology.
