The failure of the central nervous system (CNS) to repair itself after injury or in degenerative disease remains a central problem in neurobiology and neurological sciences. Our research is directed towards investigating the developmental control of axon growth by retinal ganglion cells and other CNS neurons, and on understanding why retinal ganglion cells and other CNS neurons fail to survive and regenerate after injury. We use a combination of cellular and molecular approaches to address these questions. In addition, we are developing novel stem cell and nanotherapeutics approaches for ocular repair. My clinical effort is focused on patients in need of medical or surgical intervention for glaucoma and other retinal and optic nerve diseases, and on developing clinical trials to translate advances in the lab towards patient use.