Investigating eye defects related to vitamin A and genetic factors

Microphthalmia, anophthalmia and coloboma (MAC) and retinoic acid pathway genes

NIH-funded research Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr · NIH-10918222

This study is looking at how certain genetic factors and a lack of vitamin A during pregnancy might cause serious eye problems like microphthalmia, anophthalmia, and coloboma, and it's for people who have these conditions to help find better ways to support them.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cincinnati, United States)
Project IDNIH-10918222 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on microphthalmia, anophthalmia, and coloboma (MAC), which are serious eye defects leading to visual impairment. It aims to understand how genetic variations in the retinoic acid pathway and environmental factors, particularly maternal vitamin A deficiency, contribute to these conditions. By recruiting patients with MAC, the study will conduct detailed assessments and genetic analyses to identify correlations between genetic factors and the severity of eye defects. The findings could help in developing targeted interventions for affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with microphthalmia, anophthalmia, or coloboma.

Not a fit: Patients with eye defects not related to genetic or vitamin A factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of eye defects, potentially enhancing vision outcomes for affected patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors related to eye development, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

Cincinnati, 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.
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.