Visual Function Core

National Eye Institute

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

During past year, NEI visual function core (VFC) continues to provide service and support to the NEI and NIH scientific community and to extramural researchers on non-invasive methods to evaluate visual function in various animal models. A combination of virtual and physical support is adopted by the core to provide service to vision research environment. Variety virtual communication tools were used to maximize interactions with research scientists. VFC coordinated with researchers and animal facility to ensure safety for everyone and provided PPE and disinfection materials. While electrophysiological recordings and eye imaging constituted most of the core service, behavior tests to determine opto-motor responses were also used by our researchers. NEI-VFC has helped users in design ERG recording and OCT imaging protocols specific for each research projects. Main accomplishments of the core for past year include: 1) Performed maintenance of all core equipment to ensure their optimal performance. 2) Coordinated with VRRS for periodic inspection and examination of the facility and instrument to ensure complete disinfection. 3) Organized a workshop on OCT image acquisition and analysis. 4) In collaboration with OISO/BioTeam, developed programs for automated segmentation of OCT images for retinal layers using machine-learning tools, provided programs to researchers for analyzing OCT data. 5) Upgraded Bioptigen OCT system for rodent eye imaging. 6) Added new capacity for OCT imaging of adult zebrafish retina. 7) In collaboration with OISO/BioTeam, initiated plans for networking all instruments in the core to save data directly to network drivers. 8) Provided training and supervision to researchers on using core equipment, following safety and social distance rules to minimize person-to-person contact. 9) Provided training to scientific personnel on data analysis software, encouraging use of virtual communication when possible. 10) Providing consultations on using non-invasive methods to evaluate visual function to extramural research groups. VFC provided training and help to users on analysis methods of electrophysiological, eye imaging, and behavior data, and on tools of generating final reports. Core also provided directions and instructions on installation of software needed for electrophysiological recording, behavior testing, and eye image data analysis. In addition, core provided consultations and advises on various research projects. During the past year, core provided service and training to 38 scientists in 23 research groups (PIs), including 2 from other NIH institutes. NEI-VFC also provided consultations to several extramural research groups.