Arginase-producing immune cells protecting retinal nerve cells after optic nerve trauma
Arginase positive monocyte mediated RGC neuroprotection after traumatic optic neuropathy
This project tests whether arginase-producing monocytes can protect retinal nerve cells after optic nerve injury, which could help people with traumatic optic neuropathy and related vision loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11110355 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use animal models of optic nerve injury to study how specific immune cells influence retinal ganglion cell survival and axon regrowth. They will track alternatively activated neutrophils (Ly6Glow CD14+ CD101-) that recruit arginase-positive monocytes to the injury site and monitor how these monocytes and microglia create a repair-friendly environment. Laboratory methods include cell labeling, molecular profiling, and interventions that change immune cell behavior to measure effects on nerve recovery. The goal is to define mechanisms that could be translated into treatments to protect or regenerate retinal neurons.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for future related trials would be people with recent traumatic optic neuropathy or acute optic nerve injury with new vision loss, though the current work is preclinical in animals.
Not a fit: People with long-standing, stable vision loss from chronic optic nerve disease or blindness from non-neurological causes are unlikely to benefit from this research in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to immune-based therapies that protect retinal ganglion cells and help preserve vision after optic nerve trauma.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies have shown some immune cell subsets can promote nerve repair, but the specific role and therapeutic use of arginase-positive monocytes in optic nerve protection is relatively new and less-tested.
Where this research is happening
Columbus, UNITED STATES
- Ohio State University — Columbus, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sas, Andrew Robert — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Sas, Andrew Robert
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 below.