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In medicine and science, two inseparable sisters, a modern renaissance has
occurred in which the pursuit of knowledge has provided the world with
fascinating discoveries and answers to age-old questions. Perhaps one of
the most shining and striking moments in this modern renaissance was
the elucidation of the human genome. From this momentous project were
produced tools and knowledge that could be put to use to solve other
problems and answer other questions. We find, however, that in seeking
out an answer, we instead discover that we have more questions than when
we started out. Moreover, answers that are found in chemistry, physics,
insect genetics, and so forth frequently provide researchers in seemingly
unrelated fields with clues that may prove to be important in their own
hunts. It is important, then, that as true renaissance scientists, we open
ourselves to the knowledge that is transmitted (literally on a daily basis
now) in the world of science and medicine.
The world of ophthalmology is certainly partaking in this renaissance
with ever new advancements in the field. Ocular immunopathology is at
the forefront of these new advancements. The immune system, involved in
diverse processes from inflammation to cancer, has proven to play a central
role in many diseases. Even when an organ system is seemingly tucked
away from the immune system, as are the brain and intraocular structures,
dysfunctions involving components of the immune system can nonetheless
manifest themselves. Yet again we are left with more questions than
answers in attempting to understand disease. |
