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This may not seem like a big deal at first glance, but consider this: 1) Academia Europaea is a highly select organization that strives to advance and propagate excellence in scholarship. 2) Its members include over 80 Nobel laureates (!) as well as experienced, well-established scientists and scholars selected for membership based on their contributions to their fields. 3) Academia Europaea maintains close relationships with organizations and public bodies that include the European Comission, UNESCO, and the European Research Council.

Getting recommended for membership and passing through the expert committee’s rigorous evaluation of one’s career and scientific presence is

-BIG-!

Massive, heartfelt congratulations to our leader, Professor Kai Kaarniranta, from our whole team!

Link to the news article: https://www.uef.fi/fi/artikkeli/silmatautiopin-professori-kai-kaarniranta-on-kutsuttu-academia-europaean-jaseneksi

We’d like to congratulate our team members for their hard work on their two recent publications on 1) the genetic polymorphisms and 2) autophagy mechanisms of wet age-related macular degeneration (wAMD).

1) Variations in pigmentary genes MC1R and DCT were found to be associated with wAMD. Melanin pigment is known to protect retinal function and changes in its regulation may play a role in the development of wAMD.

2) One of the main characteristics of AMD is the formation of retinal waste deposits called drusen. Amyloid beta, better known for its role in Alzheimer’s disease, is one of their constituents. Our study determined that amyloid beta has a role in the activation of secretory autophagy in retinal pigment epithelium cells and the subsequent formation of drusen in the retinal extracellular space.

Pigmentary genetics: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bbrep.2026.102477

Secretory autophagy: https://doi.org/10.1096/fj.202502464RRR

That’s right, our senior laboratory technician Anne Seppänen finished her multi-year (yet swift!) journey, bagging that sweet, sweet Bachelor’s Degree in Laboratory Engineering! Many sleepless nights of studying finally got its reward and now it is time to celebrate. Massive congratulations!

Inspired by our university’s biannual sports afternoon, we decided to head out for a round of mini- and frisbeegolf. The weather was great: pleasantly cool and crisp, partly cloudy at first and then followed by the setting sun, and with a slight breeze to keep us energized as we played! We experienced lots of balls stuck in obstacles, lots of slipped discs (not in our backs, thankfully!) flying off in unintended directions, and lots of laughter. What a fun day!

Another year past, another opportunity to intake some glögi and chosen treats from the folks of Kaarniranta Lab and the Histology crew! As usual, conversations and merriment were aplenty. This time there was a chance to try on some upside down goggles and complete a small hand-eye coordination trial. The lucky (or skilled?) winner got some treats and curiosities for herself to enjoy. In the evening, there was an opportunity to go for a nice Indian meal at Sanskriti.

To make sure we’re not dull boys and girls, we make sure to have the occasional breather to play some tabletop games or even brave the great outdoors (in the form of minigolf or such) for some fresh air. This year was no different, with multiple get togethers to strengthen our camaraderie.

We wish to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Maria Hytti for achieving something few can say they could do: she has received the title of a docent, celebrating her significant achievements in scientific publishing and education! Bravo, bravo!