How retinal cells influence the identity of visual neurons in the brain
Official title: Influence of retinal ganglion cells on visual neuron identity in superior colliculus
Funded at Children's Research Institute · NIH-10739368 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain cells in the eye help shape the way our brain processes what we see, using mice to learn more about how these cells might lead to new ways to treat vision problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Children's Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $500,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY034660-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10739368 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with vision impairment or those interested in understanding the biological mechanisms of vision.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to visual processing or those who do not have any vision impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of retinal ganglion cells in determining the identity of visual neurons in the superior colliculus, a part of the brain involved in processing visual information. By using mouse models, the researchers will explore how these retinal cells contribute to the development and specialization of neurons that respond to different visual stimuli, such as motion and color. The study employs advanced genetic techniques to manipulate and observe the effects of these retinal cells on neuron development, aiming to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new treatments for vision loss.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative strategies for restoring vision in individuals who have experienced vision loss due to disease or injury.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown success in understanding neuron specialization in other visual regions, indicating potential for breakthroughs in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Children's Research Institute
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Triplett, Jason — Children's Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Triplett, Jason
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.