Improving cone cell survival in retinitis pigmentosa by altering metabolism
Reprogramming the metabolome to overcome the genetic heterogeneity in retinitis pigmentosa
This study is looking at ways to help protect the vision of people with retinitis pigmentosa by changing how certain cells in the eye get their energy, using special techniques in mice to find new treatments that could prevent blindness.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10900808 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on retinitis pigmentosa (RP), a genetic condition that leads to blindness due to the death of photoreceptor cells in the retina. The project aims to understand how cone cells, which are crucial for vision, can be protected from dying by reprogramming their metabolism. Researchers will use advanced techniques, including CRISPR, to manipulate the metabolic processes in both cone cells and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells in mouse models of RP. By enhancing or suppressing specific metabolic pathways, the study seeks to find new therapies that could prevent vision loss in patients with RP.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, particularly those experiencing early to mid-stage vision loss.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced retinitis pigmentosa who have already lost significant vision may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that preserve vision in patients with retinitis pigmentosa.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of reprogramming metabolism in retinal cells is innovative, similar strategies in other conditions have shown promise, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Nan-Kai — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Wang, Nan-Kai
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.