How immune cells affect eye development and vision.
Official title: Regulation of optic stalk development by microglia
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10740772 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special immune cells in the brain, called microglia, help the eye develop properly and close a gap that’s important for good vision, which could help us find new ways to treat eye problems like coloboma that can cause vision loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $423,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY034753-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10740772 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of ocular diseases or developmental eye disorders, particularly those at risk for coloboma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed eyes and no history of ocular diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of microglia, the immune cells in the brain, during the early development of the eye. It focuses on how these cells contribute to the closure of the optic fissure, a crucial process for normal vision, and how their actions may prevent conditions like coloboma, which can lead to vision loss. The study will explore whether microglia help eliminate dying cells during this process and how their function might be altered if they are depleted. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to provide insights into potential treatments for ocular diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating eye disorders that result from developmental issues.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific role of microglia in eye development is less explored, similar research has shown that immune cells play critical roles in other developmental processes, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vetter, Monica L — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Vetter, Monica L
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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.