Helping the eye regrow its pigmented retinal layer to treat macular degeneration
Elucidating the Molecular Underpinnings of Endogenous RPE Regeneration
This project looks for ways to help the eye's pigmented retinal layer (RPE) regrow so people with age-related macular degeneration might keep or recover vision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11251987 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are tracing the molecular and cellular steps used when RPE regenerates, using lab models and human-derived cells. They study animals that can naturally regrow RPE and also examine human RPE stem cells to find signals that promote normal repair without harmful overgrowth. The team maps the genes and pathways controlling RPE cell division, migration, and monolayer formation after injury. The goal is to use those findings to develop treatments that stimulate the eye's own repair instead of only relying on transplants.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with age-related macular degeneration or other diseases that cause RPE loss, and individuals willing to donate eye tissue for research, would be the most relevant candidates for related future therapies or studies.
Not a fit: People whose vision loss stems from problems unrelated to RPE damage or those with extensive retinal scarring where regeneration is unlikely may not benefit from these approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work may lead to treatments that stimulate the eye to repair its own RPE, potentially preserving or restoring vision for people with AMD.
How similar studies have performed: Stem-cell-derived RPE transplants have reached clinical trials, but strategies to stimulate the eye's own RPE regeneration are newer and remain largely at the laboratory and preclinical stage.
Where this research is happening
Austin, United States
- University of Texas at Austin — Austin, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gross, Jeffrey — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Gross, Jeffrey
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.