The photopic negative response as a biomarker for functional integrity of the optic nerve

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Jan Kremers
• Subject Area: Ophthalmology
• Term: from 2007 to 2014
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 34425406

In the first period of the project, the photopic negative response (PhNR) has been studied using different techniques. These techniques aimed at optimizing the signal-to-noise ratio of the PhNR and at elucidating cone driven signals in the pathways leading to a PhNR. The data have been used to perform experiments with normal subjects and glaucoma patients. The results indicate that the PhNR is a potential biomarker for glaucoma when using optimal stimulus conditions. In addition, a stimulus paradigm has been used in the lab Erlangen and in Freiburg to be able to compare the results obtained in the two labs.The goal of the work will be a full description of the ERG components and the stimulus conditions that are optimal for diagnosis and monitoring of glaucoma. A full comparative study between normal subjects and glaucoma patients using these conditions will be performed. A comparison with the pattern ERG in identical individuals is planned. A comparison of the outcome of the measurements performed in Freiburg and in Erlangen will be performed. An additional goal of work in the requested year. Finally, the electrophysiological data will be compared with structural data (OCT, HRT; GDx) from the same individuals.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants