The first goal was to quantitatively measure the protein and water concentration in bovine eye lenses and corneas using the NIR spectrometer. This is important because the transparency of the lens and cornea depends on the concentrations of both protein and water. Known concentrations of bovine albumin serum were prepared with water and used to form a calibration curve. This curve allows for the determination of protein concentration via peak height ratios in a spectum collected from a lens or cornea sample. Also under investigation are porcine and lamb ocular tissue.
Age dependency is another area of study being explored.
The most recent research I am conducting again involves the NIR and the differences of NIR spectra of diseased and normal tissues. There has been evidence, that shows promise, that the NIR may be able to etect diseases such as cancer. If this pans out, detection will be made easier and earlier. This has been an interesting and productive summer of research. A picture of Ian and Dr. Williams studying hard in Timken Science Library.