Finding ways to protect retinal neurons from degeneration
Identifying and leveraging strategies of inherently resilient retinal neurons to treat degeneration
['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11056821
This study is looking at how some special cells in the eye can stay healthy even when diseases like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy usually cause vision loss, with the goal of finding new ways to help protect these important cells for better eye health.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11056821 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain retinal neurons, known as retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), can survive degeneration that typically leads to vision loss in conditions like glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. The approach involves using advanced imaging techniques to observe these cells over time, focusing on their ability to maintain cellular health despite the challenges posed by degenerative diseases. By understanding the mechanisms that allow some RGCs to persist, the research aims to develop new treatment strategies that specifically target and preserve these vital cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing vision loss due to conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or other age-related retinal degenerative diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with retinal degeneration not related to RGC damage or those with conditions that do not affect retinal neurons may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that prevent vision loss in patients suffering from retinal degeneration.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding cellular resilience in other neurodegenerative conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY — SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WILLIAMS, PHILIP RAYMOND — WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: WILLIAMS, PHILIP RAYMOND
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.
Conditions: age associated neurodegenerative disease, age associated neurodegenerative disorder, age dependent neurodegenerative disease, age dependent neurodegenerative disorder, age-driven neurodegenerative disorders