Department Doctoral Scholar Selected as PI for Elevatum Study

Department of Medical Microbiology & Immunology PhD student in Clinical Research and Ophthalmologist Dr. Oscar Onyango has been selected to be the Principal Investigator (PI) in the Elevatum Study sponsored by Genentech, a member of the Roche Group.

This study, is a clinical trial to improve the understanding of how faricimab works to reduce certain signs of diabetic macular edema, or DME, in patients who self-identify as Black/African American, Hispanic/Latino American, or Native American/Alaska Native/Native Hawaiian or other Pacific Islander, and have never had any anti-VEGF treatment in the study eye.

Regarding this appointment as PI, Chair of the Department Dr. Marianne Mureithi commented "I am proud to recognize Dr. Onyango's leadership in the Elevatum Study. This important research, focusing on the treatment of diabetic macular edema in underrepresented groups, highlights our commitment to advancing medical knowledge and promoting health equity. Dr. Onyango's work is crucial in understanding faricimab's effects in diverse populations and sets a precedent for inclusive and impactful medical research. We applaud his dedication and are excited about the potential implications of this study for patient care and future research"