Investigating how a specific enzyme helps recycle a key molecule for vision.
Studies of retinyl ester hydrolase in the visual cycle
This study is looking at how a specific enzyme helps transport an important molecule needed for good vision in the eye, and it's for anyone interested in understanding more about how our eyes work and what happens when this enzyme isn't functioning properly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10877034 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of retinyl ester hydrolase in the visual cycle, which is crucial for maintaining normal vision. It aims to explore how this enzyme facilitates the transport of a vital molecule, all-trans retinyl ester, from storage sites in the eye to where it is needed for vision. By studying the function of this enzyme in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), researchers hope to fill a significant knowledge gap regarding visual pigment regeneration. The approach includes using animal models to observe the effects of enzyme deficiencies on vision.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who may be experiencing vision issues related to the visual cycle.
Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without vision-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for age-related vision problems by improving our understanding of the visual cycle.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of retinyl ester hydrolase in the visual cycle is not extensively studied, related research on visual cycle components has shown promising results in understanding vision restoration.
Where this research is happening
Winston-Salem, United States
- Wake Forest University Health Sciences — Winston-Salem, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ma, Jian-Xing — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Ma, Jian-Xing
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 below.