Investigating a model for inherited blindness using nonhuman primates
Official title: Nonhuman Primate Model of Inherited Photoreceptor Degeneration
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11072093 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a genetic eye condition called Bardet-Biedl syndrome, which can cause blindness, and it uses a special family of monkeys that have similar eye problems to help test a new gene therapy that could one day help people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $767,366 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY035309-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072093 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with inherited retinal degenerations, particularly those with Bardet-Biedl syndrome or similar conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with retinal degeneration caused by non-genetic factors or those without inherited conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding inherited retinal degeneration, specifically Bardet-Biedl syndrome, which leads to blindness. By using a unique family of rhesus monkeys that exhibit similar retinal degeneration as humans, researchers aim to develop and test a novel gene therapy. The study involves careful observation and analysis of the monkeys' retinal structure and function, which closely resembles that of humans, to evaluate the effectiveness of potential treatments before they are applied to human patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective gene therapies that restore vision in patients suffering from inherited retinal diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using animal models for testing gene therapies, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Neuringer, Martha — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Neuringer, Martha
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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.