Developing a new drug to treat dry age-related macular degeneration

Advancing the small molecule drug candidate with dual specificity as a therapy for dry AMD

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10913693

This study is looking at new medications that might help people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) by reducing harmful substances in the eye and keeping important proteins stable, and patients may have the chance to try these treatments in clinical trials.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10913693 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in the U.S. The study investigates a new class of small molecule drug candidates that target the synthesis of harmful compounds in the retina, which accumulate with age and contribute to AMD. By using specific antagonists that disrupt the transport of retinol to the eye, the research aims to reduce the formation of these harmful compounds while stabilizing proteins that could otherwise lead to additional complications. Patients may be involved in trials to assess the effectiveness and safety of these new treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with dry age-related macular degeneration.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of macular degeneration or those without AMD may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel therapy that slows or prevents vision loss in patients with dry AMD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise with similar approaches targeting retinol transport and bisretinoid synthesis, indicating potential for success in this novel treatment.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.