How certain receptors affect blood vessel function in the eye.
G protein-coupled receptor regulation of transcriptional mechanisms in the retinal vasculature.
This study is looking at how certain proteins in your body help keep the blood vessels in your eyes healthy, especially when injuries happen that can lead to vision issues like diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration, with the hope of finding new ways to improve eye health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston Children's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11055401 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of G protein-coupled receptors in regulating the health of blood vessels in the retina, which is crucial for maintaining vision. It focuses on understanding how injury to retinal endothelial cells can lead to vision problems in conditions like diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. The researchers will explore the signaling pathways involved, particularly the effects of a lipid mediator called sphingosine 1-phosphate on gene expression related to vascular function. By identifying these mechanisms, the study aims to find new ways to restore healthy blood vessel function in the retina.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults suffering from retinal vascular dysfunction, particularly those with diabetic retinopathy or age-related macular degeneration.
Not a fit: Patients with retinal conditions unrelated to vascular dysfunction or those who do not have any retinal diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve or restore vision in patients with retinal diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways for treating retinal diseases, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Boston Children's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hla, Timothy Tun — Boston Children's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Hla, Timothy Tun
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.