Creating 3D models of the human inner blood-retina barrier
Official title: Engineering three-dimensional perfusable microphysiological models of the human inner blood-retina barrier
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10997355 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating special 3D models of the eye's blood-retina barrier to better understand how problems in this area can lead to eye diseases, helping researchers learn more about keeping our eyes healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $602,585 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY035853-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997355 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing retinal vascular issues, particularly those related to aging.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-retinal vascular conditions or those who do not have age-related retinal issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced three-dimensional models of the inner blood-retina barrier (iBRB), which is crucial for understanding retinal vascular diseases. By engineering these models to mimic healthy tissue, the research aims to explore how various factors contribute to retinal vascular dysfunction. The project involves creating different types of tissue-engineered models and enhancing their complexity to better replicate the natural environment of the iBRB. This innovative approach will help fill existing knowledge gaps and improve our understanding of retinal health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatments for retinal vascular diseases, potentially improving vision and quality of life for affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in developing similar 3D models for studying vascular systems, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gerecht, Sharon — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Gerecht, Sharon
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.