Research questions
This project aims to investigate the associations between genetic, lifestyle, social, and environmental factors and the risk of developing eye and adnexa disorders and their related comorbidities. Additionally, we will examine the roles of these factors in the process from a healthy state to the terminal stage of the disease and even blindness.
Objectives
1. Identify residual risk factors beyond traditional metrics by integrating genomic, proteomic, metabolomic, microbiome, imaging, and exposomic data;
2. Quantify how lifestyle factors-such as diet, physical activity, sleep, and substance use-and environmental stressors-including air pollution, noise, and neighborhood deprivation-modulate these biological pathways;
3. Examine the role of emerging risk factors in both primary and secondary prevention to inform early intervention strategies and clinical applications;
4. Develop integrative risk models that combine genetic, proteomic, environmental, and lifestyle data to support personalized prevention strategies.
Scientific Rationale
Harnessing UK Biobank’s rich phenotypic, genomic, and environmental data, this study will take a comprehensive, longitudinal approach to pinpoint both modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors for the onset and progression of eye and adnexal disorders and their comorbidities. Elucidating how genetic predisposition, lifestyle behaviors, psychosocial factors, and environmental exposures interact is essential to refine early risk stratification, steer prevention strategies, and tailor personalized interventions.
dissemination plan
1. I intend to publish the main findings in high-impact journals relevant to the research field.
2. I plan to present the findings at national and international conferences, workshops, and seminars.
3. I will prepare lay summaries and infographics to communicate the key findings to the general public through institutional websites, social media and other channels.