Translational Science

RESEARCH

Dr. Rohit Shetty has published an extensive body of influential studies and scientific papers in clinical and translational research, with a strong focus on corneal biomechanics, keratoconus, and refractive surgery. His research has advanced the understanding of corneal diseases and contributed to the development of more precise and personalized treatment approaches.

He has also played a key role in ground-breaking multi-center clinical studies conducted for regulatory bodies such as the CDSCO and the U.S. FDA, helping shape modern ophthalmic practices and standards of care worldwide.

His research portfolio focuses on bridging the gap between clinical practice and laboratory science to develop personalized, effective treatments for complex ocular conditions.

Research & Innovation - Dr. Rohit Shetty

Primary Themes

Keratoconus

  • Inflammatory Mechanisms: Pioneered research establishing keratoconus as an inflammatory disorder rather than a purely structural one, focusing on mitigating inflammation to stabilize the disease.
  • Molecular & Genetic Research: Involves identifying molecular defects and genetic screening to predict disease progression.
  • Novel Therapies: Actively developing gene therapy (using animal models) and point-of-care molecular diagnostic kits, such as the "Bio M Pathfinder" to detect biomarkers like Lysyl oxidase (LOX).
  • Community Impact: Devising cost-effective screening and affordable treatment options specifically for South Asian populations, who are at higher risk for early-onset keratoconus.

Advanced Refractive Surgery & Corneal Ectatic Disorders

  • Surgical Innovation: Research focuses on the individualized correction of refractive errors using multiple laser platforms, including the Cheetah System and UV-Femtosecond laser assisted lenticular extraction.
  • Biomechanics & Wound Healing: A central interest is the study of corneal biomechanics and tissue remodelling post-surgery (SMILE, LASIK, and PRK) to enhance predictability and safety.
  • Haze Management: Investigating anti-fibrotic molecules like SAHA (Suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid) to better manage post-operative corneal haze.

Artificial Intelligence & Mathematical Modelling

  • Predictive Analytics: His research focusses on AI to predict keratoconus progression, ocular neuropathic pain, and post-operative corneal stiffness.
  • Global Impact: He developed AcusimX, the world’s first AI-based prediction model for keratoconus, which is currently utilized across 15 countries.

Advanced Imaging Technologies

  • Clinical Applications: One of the first clinicians to apply Polarization Sensitive OCT (PSOCT) in practice, building a prototype to study corneal ultrastructure and birefringence.
  • Diagnostic Validation: Research involves comparing the repeatability and agreement of various high-end imaging devices (such as Pentacam, MS39, and Sirius) to ensure accuracy in pediatric and adult clinical settings.

Dry Eye & Ocular Surface Health

Addressing the rise in dry eye due to digital exposure and environmental factors, his research explores different therapeutic platforms and immunological responses.

  • Immune Profiling: Current studies involve molecular and ocular surface immune profiling in patients with dry eye and chronic sequelae like Stevens-Johnson Syndrome.
  • Innovative Treatments: Conducted extensive research on the molecule trehalose and investigated the efficacy of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and thermal pulsation therapies (LipiFlow).
Founder & Innovator - Dr. Rohit Shetty

Founder & Innovator

Prof. Rohit Shetty is a visionary innovator dedicated to advancing ophthalmic science through multidisciplinary research. He is the developer of the “Bio M Pathfinder,” the first point-of-care diagnostic kit designed to detect molecular biomarkers in clinical settings, enabling faster and more precise disease detection.

He has established several cutting-edge research and diagnostic facilities that foster collaboration between clinicians, scientists, and engineers, driving innovation and breakthroughs in vision science. These include:

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NOVEL

A dedicated optics lab focused on improving the quality of vision.

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Multinomics Diagnostics Lab

Specializing in molecular and genomic diagnostics.

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ANGEL

(Advanced Novel Genetic Evaluating Lab) – Focused on advanced genetic evaluation and research.

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GROW Lab

(Genes, Repair and Regeneration in Ophthalmic Workstation) – A pioneering, one-of-a-kind genetics lab in India dedicated to gene therapy, gene repair, and regeneration in ophthalmology.

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IBMS

(Imaging, Biomechanics and Mathematical Solutions Lab) – Dedicated to advanced imaging, biomechanics, and computational analysis.

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AURA

(Adaptive Optics Understanding of the Retina and its Clinical Applications) – Focused on advanced retinal imaging and research.

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CODE

A specialty clinic dedicated to diagnosing and managing disorders of the tear film.

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Tear Science Lab

Asia’s first dedicated Dry Eye Centre, addressing occupational and lifestyle-related eye disorders that affect millions of people today.

"These initiatives continue to drive groundbreaking discoveries and technological advancements in ophthalmology and vision care."