Profile
Dr Shyam Sunder Tummanapalli is an early career scientist within the School of Optometry and Vision Science at UNSW, with a focus on neuropeptides and ocular surface research. Dr Tummanapalli’s PhD identified ocular surface neuropeptides as biomarkers for the nerve damage in people with diabetes. This work was critical as it allows early detection and may prevent progression of diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a condition that causes recurring ulcers of the feet and in severe cases require amputation. He has been recognised with a Dean's Award for his Outstanding PhD Thesis entitled "Evaluation of corneal nerves & tear neuromediators in diabetic peripheral neuropathy". His research interests include ocular surface biomarkers in people with dry eyes and neurodegenerative diseases.
His current projects include:
- Investigating the changes in the ocular surface and tear protein levels in people wearing contact lenses.
- Investigating the ocular surface changes in diabetes-associated dry eyes.
- Investigating the markers of ocular surface inflammation in people with Multiple Sclerosis.
- Evaluating the efficacy of medical masks against a range of pathogens transmitted due to the proximity between patient and examiner in an eyecare setup.
- Examining the antimicrobial efficacy of this novel hand sanitizer and its residual antimicrobial activity.