Proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) is characterized by the formation of scar tissue at the interface between vitreous and retina and represents the leading cause for failure of retinal detachment surgery. One of the reasons for this is the currently insufficient understanding of disease progression. Due to their proximity to lesion sites, vitreous cells, so-called hyalocytes, may contribute to scar formation. Technical advances of cell sorting and transcriptome analysis have enabled us to characterize this cell type as members of the innate immune system. In this project, the scientists aim to investigate the role of hyalocytes in PVR development to ultimately discover novel potential pharmacotherapies, which would complement existing, already sophisticated surgical techniques in the future. 

Further information here.