Issue highlights the growing role of mathematical modelling and computational techniques in understanding, diagnosing and predicting eye diseases
By Mr George Wigmore (Senior Communications Officer), Published
Researchers from City St George’s, University of London recently edited a prestigious special issue in the journal Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science (IOVS).
The issue, titled Mathematical and Computational Ophthalmology (MaCO), highlights the growing role of mathematical modelling and computational techniques in understanding, diagnosing and predicting eye diseases. It was co-edited by Professor David Crabb and Dr Paul Roberts at City St George’s, alongside Emeritus Professor Philip Luthert from University College London.
Leading vision research
IOVS is one of the most respected journals in Ophthalmology and Vision Science, ranking sixth out of 95 journals in the field. Special issues such as Mathematical and Computational Ophthalmology are highly prestigious, bringing together leading experts to showcase groundbreaking research.
Dr Roberts, Lecturer in Optometry and Visual Sciences at City St George’s, played a pivotal role in managing the special issue. Reflecting on the significance of this collection, he explained:
“This paper collection serves three key purposes: (i) to showcase research in the field to the broader ophthalmological, vision science, medical, mathematical and computational communities, (ii) to further advance the field through original research articles, and (iii) to discuss the potential of mathematical and computational tools in ophthalmology, exploring directions for future research.”
Pioneering research in ophthalmology
The special issue has already published 35 articles, with more expected to follow. These include invited reviews from some of the leading figures in the field, such as Christine Curcio, Alastair Denniston, Aaron Lee, and Arto Urtti. The original research contributions cover a wide range of topics, including:
- Visual perception
- The tear film
- Glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration
- Ocular drug delivery
- Retinal vasculature and blood flow
This collection represents a significant step forward in bridging the gap between mathematics, computing and ophthalmology, accelerating progress towards more effective treatments and personalised patient care.
Defining the field
A key aspect of the special issue is the emphasis on two emerging disciplines: Mathematical Ophthalmology and Computational Ophthalmology.
Dr Roberts coined the term Mathematical Ophthalmology, which he defines as:
“The use of mechanistic mathematical models to derive insight into the mechanisms underpinning the structure and function of the eye in health, development and disease, and to predict the effects of existing and putative treatments.”
In contrast, Computational Ophthalmology, a well-established field, focuses on advanced computational techniques, including machine learning and artificial intelligence, to analyse the vast amounts of data generated in ophthalmology. As Dr Roberts notes:
“In both cases, the aim is to derive genuine translational impact in healthcare, accelerating progress towards more effective treatments, personalised treatment strategies, and clinical decision support systems.”
Speaking about the issue, Professor Crabb said: “IOVS has long been one of the world's leading journals in ophthalmology and visual science. Our work and leadership in this special extended issue is another example of the Department of Optometry’s international research reputation.”
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