Investigating genetic variations in the complement system related to age-related macular degeneration.
Official title: Functional Analysis of Complement Variants in a Genotyped iPSC Epithelial Cell Model System
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10994169 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genetic differences in a part of the immune system affect the health of eye cells in people with age-related macular degeneration, using special cells from patients to learn more about how these differences might impact eye function and lead to new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | December 4, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $749,831 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AI180047-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10994169 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with intermediate age-related macular degeneration, particularly those with specific genetic variations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without age-related macular degeneration or those with other unrelated eye conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how genetic variations in the complement system affect the response of retinal pigment epithelial cells, which are crucial for eye health. Using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from patients with intermediate age-related macular degeneration, the researchers will differentiate these cells into retinal pigment epithelial cells and analyze their function. The study aims to quantify the levels of complement proteins and assess how genetic differences influence their production and activity. This could provide insights into the mechanisms behind age-related macular degeneration and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating age-related macular degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of genetic variations in the complement system, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stambolian, Dwight Edward — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Stambolian, Dwight Edward
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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.