How Nerve Cells in the Eye Send Visual Signals
Mechanisms of Neurotransmission in Vertebrate Retina
This research looks at how special proteins help nerve cells in the eye send signals, which is key for our vision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11055362 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project explores the tiny parts inside our eye's nerve cells that help us see. We are learning about a specific protein, called syntaxin3B, and how it helps these cells send visual information to the brain. We want to understand if changes to this protein, like when it's modified by another molecule, affect how well our eyes can process light and send signals. By understanding these basic mechanisms, we hope to uncover why vision problems might occur.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future studies building on this work might seek individuals with specific vision impairments.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or diagnostic services for existing vision conditions would not directly benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could provide fundamental insights into how vision operates, potentially leading to new ways to understand and address conditions that cause blindness.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon existing knowledge of retinal signaling and protein function, aiming to uncover novel, specific roles for syntaxin3B in vision.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heidelberger, Ruth — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Heidelberger, Ruth
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.