Exploring how IL-27 protects vision by managing inflammation in the retina
Official title: Investigating mechanisms of IL-27-induced photoreceptor protection and rescued vision
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11073064 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called IL-27 can help protect the light-sensitive cells in the eye from damage caused by inflammation, with the hope of finding new ways to treat vision loss for people with retinal diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $431,317 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY036232-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11073064 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing retinal degeneration or related vision impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with retinal conditions unrelated to inflammation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the cytokine IL-27 in protecting photoreceptors in the retina from degeneration caused by inflammation. By understanding how IL-27 can selectively suppress harmful inflammatory responses while promoting beneficial ones, the study aims to develop new therapeutic strategies for retinal diseases. The approach includes using animal models to observe the effects of IL-27 on photoreceptor survival and visual acuity, as well as the behavior of microglia, the immune cells in the retina. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to innovative treatments for vision loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that preserve vision in patients with retinal degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches targeting inflammatory pathways in retinal diseases.
Where this research is happening
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University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hackam, Abigail S — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Hackam, Abigail S
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.