Investigating how certain immune cells contribute to cell death in retinal detachment.
Official title: Defining the Role of Retinal Microglia and Infiltrating Monocytes on Photoreceptor Cell Death in Retinal Detachment
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11128671 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells affect the death of light-sensitive cells in the eye when the retina gets detached, with the hope that what we learn can help create better treatments for people dealing with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $212,522 |
| NIH project number | 5K08EY034935-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11128671 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are adults who are at risk of or have experienced retinal detachment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with retinal detachment who are under 21 years old or have other unrelated ocular conditions may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of specific immune cells, known as mononuclear phagocytes, in the process of photoreceptor cell death that occurs during retinal detachment. The project aims to enhance the skills of the principal investigator while employing advanced laboratory techniques to explore this critical area of ophthalmology. By collaborating with a multidisciplinary mentoring team, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could lead to improved treatments for retinal detachment. Patients may benefit from insights gained through this research that could inform future therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect photoreceptor cells and preserve vision in patients experiencing retinal detachment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of immune cells in retinal diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maidana, Daniel Enrique — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Maidana, Daniel Enrique
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.