Investigating how aging affects histone expression in the retinal pigment epithelium.
Official title: Histone Expression in the Aging RPE
Funded at East Tennessee State University · NIH-11050490 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how aging affects certain proteins in the eye that might play a role in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which can lead to vision loss, and it hopes to find ways to help protect eye health as we get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | East Tennessee State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Johnson City, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $521,572 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EY036138-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11050490 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for or experiencing early signs of age-related macular degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-age-related vision issues or those who do not have any retinal pigment epithelium concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the changes in histone expression that occur in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) as people age. The study aims to explore whether the loss of histone expression impacts gene activity, leads to cell death, or contributes to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a condition that can cause vision loss. By examining the molecular mechanisms involved, the research seeks to identify potential targets for therapeutic intervention to preserve RPE function and prevent AMD progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help prevent or slow down age-related macular degeneration, potentially preserving vision for many individuals.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on histone expression in aging RPE is novel, similar research has shown promising results in understanding the molecular basis of age-related diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
East Tennessee State University
Johnson City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kleinman, Mark E — East Tennessee State University
- Study coordinator: Kleinman, Mark E
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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.