Raymond S. Douglas, M.D., Ph.D.
Research Projects

Our laboratory is interested in understanding and developing new treatments for Graves' or thyroid-associated orbitopathy.

We have identified several unique fundamental features which are critical in the pathogenesis of thyroid orbitopathy. First, cells from orbital tissues from patients with Graves' disease are unique and may guide the inflammatory process. In addition, the laboratory has identified a novel target of the immune response, the insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) and production of antibodies to this receptor. The overexpression of this receptor and antibodies to it appear important in promoting inflammation of this process and are a focus of future treatment options.

The laboratory has also identified immune cells (T cells, B cells and fibrocytes) that are unique to Graves' disease and are targets for treatment.

We are also committed to bringing these novel treatments into the clinic and are conducting several clinical trials. In this regard, we have developed the International Thyroid Eye Disease Society to formulate international clinical trials and the Kellogg Eye Center will continue to be the major driving force behind these efforts.