How sex affects mitochondrial and epigenetic factors in age-related vision loss.

Impact of Sex on Mitochondrial and Epigenetic Mechanisms in Age-Related Macular Degeneration

NIH-funded research State University of New York at Buffalo · NIH-11134035

This study is looking at how being male or female might affect the way age-related macular degeneration (AMD) develops, especially in women over 60, to help find better treatments tailored to each person's needs.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Amherst, United States)
Project IDNIH-11134035 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of sex in the mechanisms that contribute to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss, particularly in women over 60. The study aims to understand how mitochondrial and epigenetic factors differ between sexes and how these differences may influence the progression of AMD. By examining the biological underpinnings of this condition, the research seeks to identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets that could lead to improved treatments. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to personalized approaches in managing AMD based on their sex and genetic background.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly women over 60, who are at risk for or diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of vision loss unrelated to age-related macular degeneration may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better-targeted therapies for age-related macular degeneration, potentially preserving vision for many patients.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been progress in understanding genetic factors related to AMD, this specific focus on sex differences in mitochondrial and epigenetic mechanisms is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Amherst, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions age related macular disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.