Kona, HI

PROGRAM: Ph.D., Biological Sciences

I am grateful for the Graduate Student Travel Award, which allowed me to attend the 10th International Conference on the Lens (ICL) 2025 meeting for the first time, held at the Outrigger Kona Resort and Spa Hotel in Kona, Hawaii. This six-day meeting was a highly focused and inspiring international gathering of principal investigators, researchers, and postdoctoral and PhD trainees from around the world who are studying lens biology and cataracts. I gave a talk on my PhD research entitled ‘Role of α5β1 integrin in the pathogenesis of posterior capsular opacification (PCO)’ and received valuable feedback and insightful questions from experts whose work closely aligns with my research interests. In particular, I would like to mention one of the PCO researchers in our field, Dr. Michael Wormstone, who suggested investigating the contraction study using an inhibitor against α5β1 integrin in my research to determine the role of α5β1 integrin in the trans-differentiation of lens epithelial cells and matrix contraction, which are regarded as the critical processes to drive tissue fibrosis or PCO in the lens. This study was already planned in my research proposal, and having a discussion with him offered me valuable perspectives on experimental approaches and will therefore help guide the next steps of my research. Besides, attending the ICL scientific talks and interactive sessions allowed me to interact with researchers and learn about recent advances in lens development, cell signaling pathways, structural biology studies on lens proteins, and injury responses in lenses leading to fibrosis that drive cataract and secondary cataract-like symptoms such as PCO following cataract surgery. Interacting with researchers from the same field not only enhanced my understanding of the current challenges and emerging directions in lens research but also helped me establish professional connections that may support me for future postdoctoral opportunities, collaborations, and career development. Outside of the scientific sessions, I had the privilege to explore Hawaii’s Kīlauea volcano site and to experience local culture and cuisine. I am sincerely grateful to the Graduate College for supporting my participation in the ICL conference and providing me with this invaluable experience for my academic and professional development.

Aloha, Mahalo! 😊