Investigating eye degeneration in cave-dwelling crustaceans
Official title: Genetic and functional analysis of eye degeneration in natural populations of a cave-dwelling crustacean
Funded at Dominican University · NIH-10875041 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the eyes of cave-dwelling crustaceans are different from those living on the surface, helping us understand why their eyes might shrink over time and what genes are involved in this change.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Dominican University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Rafael, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2019 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $307,161 |
| NIH project number | 2R15EY029499-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10875041 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with congenital eye disorders or those interested in genetic factors affecting eye development.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with eye conditions unrelated to genetic factors or those not interested in the genetic basis of eye development may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how eye development varies in cave-dwelling crustaceans compared to their surface-dwelling counterparts. By examining the genetic and functional aspects of eye size variation, the study aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms of eye degeneration. The researchers utilize advanced techniques like comparative transcriptome sequencing to identify genes and pathways involved in this process. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of eye development and potential regenerative capabilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into eye development and regeneration, potentially informing treatments for eye disorders in humans.
How similar studies have gone: While this research approach is innovative, previous studies have shown success in understanding eye development through genetic analysis in other model organisms.
Where this research is happening
-
Dominican University
San Rafael, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Protas, Meredith E — Dominican University
- Study coordinator: Protas, Meredith E
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.