{"id":5570,"date":"2025-04-03T13:28:45","date_gmt":"2025-04-03T17:28:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/med.virginia.edu\/ophthalmology\/?p=5570"},"modified":"2025-07-08T09:09:15","modified_gmt":"2025-07-08T13:09:15","slug":"spring25-clinicaltrialsupdate","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/med.virginia.edu\/ophthalmology\/spring25-clinicaltrialsupdate\/","title":{"rendered":"At the Helm of Discovery: Clinical Research at UVA Ophthalmology"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"Ashton

Ashton Leone, MPH, CCRP, CCRA
Clinical Research Manager<\/p><\/div>\n

If you\u2019ve ever wondered what fuels clinical research at UVA Ophthalmology, the answer isn\u2019t just found in data or trial protocols \u2014 it\u2019s in people like Ashton Leone, MPH, CCRP, CCRA<\/strong>, Clinical Research Manager, whose quiet determination and sharp coordination keep everything moving forward.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a team effort,\u201d Ashton is quick to say. But those who work alongside her know that her deep investment in both patients and progress has helped the department become a hub for groundbreaking studies across the spectrum of eye care.<\/p>\n

This past fall and winter were especially active seasons, with multiple long-term studies reaching meaningful milestones \u2014 and a slate of new trials launching just as spring approaches.<\/p>\n

Recent Highlights<\/h3>\n

Apellis GALE Study<\/h4>\n

Led by Paul A. Yates, MD, PhD<\/strong>, this open-label extension of Syfovre for geographic atrophy showed preserved visual function at 36 months \u2014 a remarkable result. \u201cWhat really stands out,\u201d Ashton notes, \u201cis the dedication of our four participants. They committed nearly five years to these studies. That kind of long-term involvement is extraordinary and so important.\u201d<\/p>\n

Epion Apricity Study<\/h4>\n

Under the leadership of Tara W. McGehee, MD<\/strong>, this Phase 3 trial explores a less invasive, epithelium-on approach to corneal cross-linking for keratoconus using Ribostat. \u201cIt\u2019s exciting to see alternatives that might reduce discomfort and downtime for patients,\u201d Ashton adds.<\/p>\n

Peek into What\u2019s Ahead<\/h3>\n

With spring on the horizon, Ashton and the clinical research team are looking ahead to a robust lineup of new trials which include:<\/p>\n

UCSF LOTUS Study<\/h4>\n

Led by Arthi G. Venkat, MD, MS<\/strong>, this global, multi-center collaboration brings together 15 academic institutions to study infectious uveitis through intraocular fluid and tear collection. \u201cThis kind of research has the potential to uncover new biomarkers and guide future treatment,\u201d says Ashton.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m incredibly proud of our team \u2014 our faculty, our coordinators, and especially our patients,\u201d Ashton says. \u201cEvery person who participates in a study is helping advance care for others. It\u2019s powerful.\u201d<\/p>\n

For alumni, faculty, and friends of the department, Ashton offers a warm invitation:<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you know a patient who may qualify, or if you\u2019re just curious to learn more, reach out. We\u2019re always happy to talk about what\u2019s happening \u2014 and where we\u2019re headed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u2014<\/p>\n

Contact:
\nAshton Leone, MPH, CCRP, CCRA<\/strong>
\nClinical Research Manager
\nAML7Q@virginia.edu<\/a><\/p>\n