Aya Barzelay-Wollman , M.D., Ph.D.

Barzelay-Wollman's translational research program focuses on retinal pigment epithelium, or RPE degeneration and regenerative approaches using induced pluripotent stem cell-derived RPE. She is particularly interested in understanding the retinal microenvironment into which replacement cells are delivered and how characteristics of diseased tissue influence transplanted cell survival, integration and function.

In the clinic, she specializes in the medical and surgical treatment of vitreoretinal diseases, providing a direct connection between the unmet needs she encounters in patients and the next-generation technologies her laboratory is working to develop. These include intelligent microsurgical robotic systems, AI-driven image guidance, intraocular imaging and tissue-sensing technologies, and precision approaches for targeted delivery to the retina and subretinal space. 

Barzelay-Wollman serves as UCLA Site Principal Investigator for the ARPA-H THEA program focused on whole-eye transplantation and restoration of vision. Her work within this multidisciplinary effort addresses critical challenges in donor-eye procurement, preservation and transplantation, including minimizing warm ischemia, maintaining ocular perfusion, improving visualization of orbital anatomy and developing technologies for vascular access and surgical manipulation. The program brings together regenerative medicine, transplantation, ophthalmic surgery, engineering and advanced imaging toward the long-term goal of functional whole-eye transplantation.