Finding new drugs to protect vision in zebrafish models of retinitis pigmentosa
Drug Screening for Neuroprotectants in Novel Zebrafish Models of Retinitis Pigmentosa
This study is looking for ways to help protect the eye cells that are damaged in retinitis pigmentosa, a condition that causes vision loss, by testing different drugs on specially modified zebrafish that act like this disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11314801 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates ways to protect photoreceptor cells in the retina from dying in a condition known as retinitis pigmentosa, which leads to vision loss. Using genetically modified zebrafish that mimic this disease, researchers will conduct large-scale drug screenings to identify potential neuroprotective compounds. The zebrafish models allow for easy monitoring of cell health and drug effects, providing a promising platform for discovering effective treatments. The study aims to understand the mechanisms of cell death and explore existing drugs that could be repurposed for this condition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa or those at risk of developing this condition.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of retinal degeneration not related to retinitis pigmentosa may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent vision loss in patients with retinitis pigmentosa.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research using zebrafish models has shown promise in drug discovery for various diseases, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Liyun — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Liyun
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 below.