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Full NameProfessor Conor Murphy

Ophthalmology

Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland

Webpage:rcsi.ie

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Research Fields
  • genetics, genomics and molecular biology
  • infectious disease and the immune system
Postgrad Medical Specialties
  • Ophthalmology
Medical Subspecialties
  • Immunology
My Work

Our group successfully operates within a clinician-scientist framework, being uniquely positioned within RCSI and the Royal Victoria Eye and Ear Hospital to investigate the immunological components of a range of inflammatory eye diseases. The clinical lead, Prof. Conor Murphy has established research interests in the areas of corneal transplantation and ocular surface/dry eye disease (DED).

We are currently focusing on targeting ocular surface inflammation in the autoimmune disease Sjogren's Syndrome (SS), which gives rise to dry eyes and dry mouth through reduced exocrine gland function, as well as inflammation at multiple extra-glandular sites. Therapeutic options for SS are limited, as are diagnostic tests that allow identification of patients who will go on to develop further complications. Recently, microRNA species (miRs) have been shown to regulate inflammation, suggesting that micro-RNA based strategies hold therapeutic potential in DED. We have optimised a novel technique for the isolation of miRs from human conjunctival epithelial cells (CEC) using impression cytology. Building upon this we are developing novel microRNA-based therapeutics for topical delivery to the ocular surface aimed at reducing ocular surface inflammation and ameliorating disease symptoms. This model will also be applied to other important external eye diseases including GVHD and Stevens Johnson syndrome.