Ocular Surface Immunology and Transplantation Laboratory

Contact Us

Investigator / Contact Person Victor L. Perez Quinones, M.D.

Lab 305-335-4191

Office 305-291-4699

Email Vperez4@med.miami.edu

Research

Our lab investigates immune-mediated diseases of the ocular surface, including graft-versus-host disease and corneal transplant rejection, with the goal of restoring vision through genetic and cellular therapies. We also study corneal nerve function and sensory pathways using advanced imaging and computational tools. Additional efforts focus on developing novel therapies for dry eye disease and supporting translational research across early-stage investigators.

Basic Science Research

Immunobiology of Ocular Graft-versus-Host Disease

This research focuses on elucidating the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying ocular graft-versus-host disease (oGVHD), a severe inflammatory complication following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Using experimental models and immunologic profiling techniques, we examine how dysregulated immune responses disrupt ocular surface homeostasis and contribute to epithelial damage, tear film instability, and corneal nerve dysfunction. By defining key inflammatory pathways and immune cell interactions, this work aims to inform the development of targeted treatment strategies to better manage oGVHD and preserve ocular surface integrity.
Immunology of High-Risk Corneal Transplant Rejection

This project investigates the immunologic mechanisms underlying graft rejection in high-risk corneal transplantation using murine models of allogeneic and syngeneic penetrating keratoplasty (PK). By comparing immune responses in different transplant settings, we aim to better understand the cellular and molecular pathways that drive graft failure. These models allow for controlled exploration of inflammatory mediators, immune cell infiltration, and alterations in corneal immune privilege. The ultimate goal is to identify therapeutic strategies that minimize rejection and improve graft survival in high-risk transplant recipients.
Immunity and Corneal Nerves in Homeostasis and Disease

This project explores the bidirectional relationship between the immune system and corneal sensory nerves in both healthy and diseased states. Using in vivo confocal imaging, molecular analysis, and functional testing, we assess how immune activation influences corneal nerve architecture, regeneration, and sensation across various ocular surface disorders. Understanding the interplay between inflammation and neural health may reveal mechanisms that contribute to impaired wound healing and chronic ocular surface disease, ultimately guiding the development of therapies that restore both immune balance and neural integrity.
Ocular Nanovolume Biomarkers in Inflammation

This study utilizes advanced nanovolume tear collection techniques combined with capillary electrophoresis to identify inflammatory biomarkers in ocular surface disease. By analyzing minute tear samples with high sensitivity and specificity, we aim to characterize immune mediators that reflect disease activity and severity. This approach enables minimally invasive, quantitative assessment of the ocular surface microenvironment and may support the development of diagnostic tools and personalized therapeutic monitoring strategies.
Immunity and Regeneration in Ocular Toxoplasmosis

This project investigates the impact of Toxoplasma gondii infection on retinal immune responses, neuronal integrity, and disease progression. By examining inflammatory signaling pathways, immune cell activation, and retinal structural changes, we seek to understand how infection contributes to chronic inflammation and vision loss. A major focus is to identify mechanisms that influence retinal cell survival and regenerative capacity, with the long-term goal of informing therapeutic approaches that prevent blindness in affected patients.
Development of Immune-Privileged Limbal Stem Cell Therapy

This translational project aims to develop limbal stem cell–based therapies that leverage the cornea’s immune-privileged environment to promote ocular surface regeneration while minimizing immune rejection. Through immunologic profiling, stem cell characterization, and preclinical evaluation, we assess how engineered or selectively expanded limbal stem cells interact with host immune pathways. The goal is to create safer and more durable regenerative treatments for patients with limbal stem cell deficiency and severe ocular surface disease.
Confocal Microscopy and Machine Learning

This project integrates ophthalmic imaging with artificial intelligence to improve analysis of corneal confocal microscopy. By training deep learning neural networks on large datasets of annotated images, we aim to develop automated software capable of recognizing and segmenting corneal nerve structures and other key features. This approach seeks to reduce observer variability, enhance reproducibility, and accelerate quantitative analysis of corneal nerve architecture in both research and clinical applications.

Clinical Research

Clinical Classification and Characterization of the Ocular Surface in Graft-Versus-Host Disease

This project aims to improve the clinical classification and phenotypic characterization of ocular graft-versus-host disease through comprehensive multimodal ocular surface evaluation. By integrating detailed clinical examination findings, imaging modalities, functional assessments such as corneal sensitivity testing, and immune profiling of tear samples, we seek to better understand disease heterogeneity and underlying inflammatory mechanisms. A major focus is to determine how corneal sensitivity changes in this population and whether these alterations correlate with disease severity, immune activity, or other systemic and ocular factors. The ultimate goal is to refine severity stratification, support earlier diagnosis, and optimize individualized management strategies.
Risk Factors and New Approaches in High-Risk Corneal Transplant Recipients

This project investigates clinical and immunologic risk factors associated with graft failure and complications in high-risk corneal transplant recipients. Through longitudinal evaluation, the study examines the impact of emerging therapeutic approaches on graft survival, visual outcomes, and postoperative complications. Multimodal clinical assessment and advanced imaging are used to evaluate changes in corneal sensitivity and corneal nerve health over time, with the goal of understanding how different therapies influence neural recovery and ocular surface function. Findings aim to improve risk stratification and support personalized perioperative and long-term management of complex corneal transplantation cases.
Dry Eye Disease in Individuals Living with HIV

This multicenter study evaluates the prevalence, clinical characteristics, and underlying mechanisms of dry eye disease in individuals living with HIV across diverse clinical populations in the United States. Using multimodal ocular surface assessment and patient reported outcomes, the project aims to better define disease burden and factors contributing to ocular surface dysfunction. Tear sample analysis is performed to characterize local inflammatory and immune signatures associated with disease activity. In parallel, systemic variables including antiretroviral therapy exposure, HIV viral load, and immune status as reflected by CD4 count are evaluated to understand their impact on ocular surface health. Findings aim to support earlier recognition and targeted management strategies in this population.
Machine Learning Analysis of Corneal Sensitivity and In Vivo Confocal Microscopy in Ocular Surface Disease

This project applies machine learning algorithms to integrate corneal sensitivity measurements with in vivo confocal microscopy imaging in patients with ocular surface disease. The goal is to develop an automated, objective model to analyze corneal nerve morphology and function and generate quantitative biomarkers of nerve health. The model is being evaluated across multiple conditions, including neurotrophic keratitis, ocular graft-versus-host disease, neuropathic corneal pain, dry eye disease, and Sjogren’s syndrome. By identifying reproducible nerve-related patterns associated with disease severity and symptom burden, this work aims to enhance diagnostic precision and support data driven therapeutic decision making.
Non-Contact Evaluation of Patients With Ocular Surface Disease

This project focuses on the development and application of minimally invasive, non-contact diagnostic approaches to improve evaluation and treatment decision making in patients with ocular surface disease. Using novel technologies including the Brill non-contact esthesiometer for objective assessment of corneal sensitivity and the i-Onion device to evaluate maximal lacrimal gland secretion, the study aims to characterize ocular surface function without inducing reflex tearing or surface disruption. The project includes a broad spectrum of conditions, including dry eye disease, Sjogren’s syndrome, neurotrophic keratitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, ocular cicatricial pemphigoid, ocular graft-versus-host disease, and history of penetrating keratoplasty. Longitudinal evaluation examines how disease mechanisms and therapeutic interventions influence corneal nerve health, tear production, and overall ocular surface stability to support personalized treatment strategies.
Virtual Reality–Based Functional Assessment of Visual Performance in Ocular Surface Disease

This project explores the use of virtual reality-based platforms to objectively evaluate visual function in patients with ocular surface disease. Immersive testing environments are used to assess functional visual field performance, color vision, and blink behavior as potential digital biomarkers of ocular surface discomfort and disease severity. By enabling standardized, real-time assessment of visual performance and blinking dynamics, the study aims to provide objective functional outcome measures for dry eye disease and related conditions. Findings may support improved disease monitoring and personalized treatment decision making.

Research

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Ocular Surface Immunology and Transplantation Laboratory