Creating new models to test a promising antioxidant for age-related macular degeneration
Official title: Development of Two Novel AMD Models for Evaluation of RPE Protection by the Novel Antioxidant D-DHA
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11171773 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating new mouse models to help us learn more about geographic atrophy, a serious type of age-related macular degeneration, and it will test a special antioxidant called D-DHA to see if it can help protect eye cells from damage, which could lead to new treatments for people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $443,342 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY036292-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11171773 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of or diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with forms of macular degeneration unrelated to oxidative stress or those who do not have age-related macular degeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing two new mouse models to better understand geographic atrophy, a severe form of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The study will investigate the effects of a novel antioxidant, deuterated docosahexanoic acid (D-DHA), which may protect retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells from oxidative stress that contributes to AMD. Researchers will use advanced imaging techniques and various biological analyses to evaluate the effectiveness of D-DHA in preventing or treating this condition. By creating these models, the research aims to provide insights into potential new therapies for patients suffering from AMD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that slow down or prevent the progression of age-related macular degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using antioxidants for AMD treatment, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dunaief, Joshua L — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Dunaief, Joshua L
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.