Developing new treatments for optic nerve damage using a monkey model
Official title: Advancing novel therapies for optic neuropathy with a nonhuman primate model
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11047733 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to improve treatments for a type of vision loss called autosomal dominant optic atrophy (ADOA) by using a special animal model that mimics the condition, so we can better understand how the disease progresses and find effective therapies over the next five years.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $715,063 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY033733-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11047733 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with autosomal dominant optic atrophy or similar optic neuropathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with optic neuropathies not related to genetic mutations in the OPA1 gene may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding and developing therapies for optic neuropathies, particularly autosomal dominant optic atrophy (ADOA), which leads to vision loss. By using a nonhuman primate model that closely resembles human optic nerve conditions, researchers aim to better replicate the disease and evaluate potential treatments. The study will track changes in the optic nerve and retinal function over a five-year period, providing insights into the disease's progression and treatment efficacy from a biological perspective.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective therapies that restore vision for patients suffering from optic neuropathies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using nonhuman primate models has shown promise in advancing understanding and treatment of various ocular conditions, suggesting a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thomasy, Sara Michelle — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Thomasy, Sara Michelle
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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.