Michael Belkin

About Michael Belkin

Professor Emeritus of Ophthalmology, Goldschleger Eye Research Institute, Tel Aviv University, Sheba Medical Center, Israel.

What industry trends are catching your attention right now?

The induction of neural regeneration genetic/stem cell therapies.

What is a little-known fact about you?

I was head of medical research into treatment of non-conventional warfare casualties. One of the main emphases was on botulinum toxin – the deadliest potential agent – and, to my regret, did not lead to the invention of Botox.

Make a bold prediction for the future of ophthalmology.

Diagnostic technologies with artificial intelligence will improve not only screening, earlier diagnosis and monitoring, but also the individualization of treatment. The facts suggest there will never be sufficient surgeons to cover worldwide needs – some surgeries, therefore, will need to be automated.