Alice T. Epitropoulos

Ophthalmic Surgeons & Consultants of Ohio, The Eye Center of Columbus, Clinical Assistant Professor, The Ohio State University, Ohio, USA

What is an interesting or little-known fact about you? 

I am President and co-founder of a small biotech company that is developing a drug for autoimmune diseases, starting clinical trials at Johns Hopkins University later this year.

Why did you decide to pursue ophthalmology/your subspecialty? 

My grandmother, who I was very close to growing up, was legally blind due to advanced glaucoma and macular degeneration, and I remember wanting to make a difference and improve the lives of these patients.

Who in ophthalmology/your subspecialty has been particularly influential over the past 10 years?

Dr Peter Utrata who recently passed away, was a mentor and great friend. He taught me phacoemulsification as a resident. He was often referred to as the “gentleman" of ophthalmology owing to his kind treatment of his patients, staff, and people in general. He became world-renowned as an eye surgeon because of his innovative invention, the capsulorhexis or Utrata forceps. He will be missed tremendously.

What’s been the biggest breakthrough in ophthalmology/your specific field over the last 10 years?  

One of the most significant breakthroughs in ophthalmology and our patients has been anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti VEGF) therapy for patients with ARMD for its fight against blindness. From a cataract standpoint, we have premium implant options that can provide many patients a reasonable range of vision, reducing dependence on corrective lenses (with minimal compromise).

Is there a particular tool, technological advance, or instrument you would not have been able to live without over the past 10 years? 

Phacoemulsification.

What would you like to see change in ophthalmology/your subspecialty over the next 10 years – and why? 

Dry eye is extremely prevalent and under-diagnosed. Proactively screening and treating patients, particularly with the new therapeutics in the pipeline, offers a significant opportunity to improve patient satisfaction and surgical results.

Do you have any personal missions for the next 10 years? 

1. Develop and commercialize a novel peptide to selectively treat debilitating T-cell mediated autoimmune diseases to meet significant unmet medical needs (Phase Ib/IIa clinical trials starting at Johns Hopkins University 2023).
2. To make a difference in patients with dry eye disease. Working with colleagues to formulate a unique lubricating drop to address mechanical friction (lid rub) against the cornea to stabilize the tear film, reduce corneal staining and symptoms of dry eye.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party? 

Jesus Christ.