Investigating a new target for treating choroideremia, a blinding eye disease.
Official title: Retinal Pigment Epithelium Secreted Matrix Metalloproteinase 2 as a Novel Target in Choroideremia
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10943011 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein affects the health of retinal cells in people with choroideremia, a genetic condition that causes vision loss, to find new ways to help treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $522,614 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EY036422-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10943011 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with choroideremia, particularly those experiencing early symptoms of vision loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of retinal degeneration unrelated to choroideremia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on choroideremia, a genetic condition that leads to vision loss due to degeneration of retinal cells. The team aims to understand how dysfunction in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells contributes to the disease's progression. By studying the molecular mechanisms involved, particularly the role of a protein called MMP2, they hope to identify new therapeutic targets. The research involves advanced techniques to analyze cellular signaling pathways and their effects on retinal health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow or prevent vision loss in patients with choroideremia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar molecular pathways in other retinal diseases, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fahim, Abigail — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Fahim, Abigail
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.