A Small Molecule PROTAC for Macular Degeneration
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-11564143 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A patient-friendly look at a small molecule therapy designed to target a key inflammation driver in age-related macular degeneration to help protect vision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2026 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $726,561 |
| NIH project number | 3UG3NS142998-01A1S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11564143 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults aged 21 and older with AMD/MD or related macular conditions who are suitable for ocular studies and provide informed consent.
✕Less likely to help
People without AMD/MD or with other eye conditions not related to AMD may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project tests a new drug design (a PROTAC) that aims to reduce harmful inflammation in the eye’s retina to slow or prevent progression of age-related macular degeneration. Researchers plan to use human cell-based models and eye tissue data to understand how the drug affects a molecule called sPLA2-IIA, which current studies implicate in AMD/MD. The study focuses on the dry and wet forms of AMD, where vision loss is a major concern, and seeks to identify a therapy that could complement or improve existing options. If successful, this work could pave the way for future trials in people with AMD/MD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the therapy could reduce inflammation and slow vision loss in AMD/MD patients.
How similar studies have gone: Preclinical data show that modulating sPLA2-IIA can reduce AMD/MD-related pathology in cell models and donor tissues.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singh, Ruchira — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Singh, Ruchira
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
AI-powered tool to predict 2-year risk of late AMD
A new AI software helps people at risk of age-related macular degeneration understand their 2-year risk and what steps could protect their vision.
-
Active cycling program to support vision and daily living in Veterans with AMD
A 6-month online group spin cycling program is tested to help Veterans with age-related macular degeneration maintain vision and improve daily functioning.
-
Transplanting stem-cell–derived retinal cells to treat dry AMD
A medical team is testing a stem cell therapy to replace damaged retinal cells in adults with dry age-related macular degeneration.
-
RPESC-derived RPE Transplant for Dry AMD in adults
A new cell-based therapy derived from RPESCs is being tested to help adults with dry age-related macular degeneration regain vision.
-
New high-resolution OCT biomarkers to map early AMD changes
A new imaging approach using advanced OCT methods will help doctors see early changes in age-related macular degeneration to guide treatment and improve quality of life for older adults.
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Targeting inflammation in age-related macular degeneration
Aims to understand how inflammation drives age-related macular degeneration in people and explore new targets to slow or stop vision loss.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.