Alison Kearney
Months after graduating with B.S. in Molecular Genetics from the University of Vermont, I joined the John lab as a Research Assistant. With intent to return to Vermont to attend medical school in the future, the John lab offers me a unique experience to conduct research in way that is highly translational to medicine.
I am currently focused on three main research projects. First, I am continuing to characterize, map, isolate and clone an ENU-induced mutant relevant to open-angle glaucoma. The mutant gene confers open-angle intraocular pressure elevation in mice. Second, I am continuing to characterize a mouse model of open angle-glaucoma. This mouse model is very exciting, as it involves a mutation in a gene that gives rise to human glaucoma. I am also working on identifying genes that modify the effect of this glaucoma mutation. Third, with Dr. Jeffrey Marchant, I am working to elucidate mechanisms of aqueous humor drainage (outflow) from the eye. This project involves the characterization of novel structures within Schlemm’s canal and experiments to determine if they modulate intraocular pressure.
I currently live in Southwest Harbor, the “quiet-side of the island,” which gives many opportunities to enjoy the ocean and mountains. In my spare time, I go hiking, kayaking and skiing.
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