The seminar presents an optogenetic strategy for vision restoration. The approach uses viral vectors to deliver therapeutic cargo, such as light-sensitive channels, to selected retinal cells. Because this may not be enough to restore function on its own, the project seeks response amplifiers, including TRP proteins, that could help turn remaining retinal cells into synthetic photoreceptors.
About the speaker
Milena Gumkowska (Mućka) is a third-year PhD candidate at the Institute of Physical Chemistry, Polish Academy of Sciences, and ICTER, where she works in the Ophthalmic Biology Group. She holds BSc and MSc degrees in biotechnology, specialising in chemical biotechnology, drugs and cosmetics, from the Warsaw University of Technology. Her research focuses on viral vectors for gene therapy and in vitro studies.
