Investigating how a protein can protect retinal cells and promote nerve regeneration
Official title: CaMKII: Retinal Ganglion Cell Neuroprotection and Axon Regeneration
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11096042 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called CaMKII can help protect eye cells from damage and support healing after injuries like glaucoma, with the goal of finding new ways to keep these cells alive while also encouraging nerve growth.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $555,582 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY036028-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11096042 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma or those experiencing optic nerve injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to retinal ganglion cell damage or those who do not have optic nerve injuries may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the role of a specific protein, CaMKII, in protecting retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) from damage and its potential to aid in nerve regeneration. The study will explore how activated forms of CaMKII can help RGCs survive after injuries, such as those caused by glaucoma, while also understanding why it may inhibit the growth of nerve axons. By examining the mechanisms behind these processes, the research aims to develop new therapeutic strategies that enhance cell survival without hindering nerve regeneration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect vision in patients with glaucoma by promoting the survival of retinal cells and facilitating nerve regeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using CaMKII for neuroprotection, but this specific approach to enhance both survival and regeneration is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kapiloff, Michael Seth — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Kapiloff, Michael Seth
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.