Creating lab models of the outer retina using stem cells
Official title: Using hiPSCs to develop physiologically-relevant outer retina tissue mimetics
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-10918312 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on creating special lab models that imitate the eye's protective barrier to help scientists learn more about age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a common cause of vision loss in older adults, using advanced techniques with human cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $588,670 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY033192-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10918312 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over the age of 50 who are at risk for or suffering from age-related macular degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with retinal conditions unrelated to age-related macular degeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing advanced lab models that mimic the outer blood-retina barrier, which is crucial for maintaining vision. By utilizing human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), the team aims to create tissue mimetics that replicate the complex interactions between retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells and choriocapillaris (CC) cells. These models will help researchers better understand the physiology of the retina and the mechanisms behind age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in older adults. The approach involves using engineered hydrogels to create a supportive environment for these cells, allowing for more accurate studies of retinal health and disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for age-related macular degeneration, potentially reducing the risk of blindness in affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies using hiPSCs to model retinal conditions have shown promise, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in understanding retinal diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singh, Ruchira — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Singh, Ruchira
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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.