CNIB Unveils Chanchlani Global Vision Research Award Recipient

CNIB (formerly known as the Canadian National Institute for the Blind) honours an eminent scientist CNIB is pleased to announce the 2012 Chanchlani Global Vision Research Award recipient, Dr. King-Wai Yau. Dr. Yau, who is professor of neuroscience and ophthalmology at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD, has made significant contributions in the field of retinal research. His findings have led to an understanding of how light triggers the electrical response in the retinal cells (rods and cones), and his work has guided all subsequent research in the field for the past 25-30 years.   While having a positive impact on clinical ophthalmology, Dr. Yau has determined the correlation between hereditary diseases that affect retinal cells and vision loss. Often described as a clinical puzzle, he can also explain why some individuals who are totally blind are able to synchronize their biological clock to the ambient light-dark cycle to adapt to jetlag. Overall, Dr. Yau's work has helped others understand how the eye functions. "This research is a major step forward in enabling scientists to explore the causes of blindness and vision loss, potential cures, treatments, how our eyes work and what we need to do to maintain our vision," said John M. Rafferty, president and CEO of CNIB.   The CNIB Chanchlani Global Vision Research Award was established by Vasu and Jayshree Chanchlani in collaboration with the Toronto Netralya Lions Club and the Toronto Doctors Lions Club, to support best research in the field of vision science and rehabilitation, worldwide. Valued at $25,000, the award reinforces CNIB's dedication to promote vital, world-class research to explore the causes of blindness and vision loss, potential cures, treatments and prevention.