Investigating how certain lipids from astrocytes contribute to nerve cell death in glaucoma.
Neurotoxicity of Reactive Astrocyte-secreted Lipids in Neurodegenerative Disease
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in the eye, called reactive astrocytes, can release harmful substances that may worsen vision loss in people with glaucoma, and it aims to find ways to stop these substances from damaging important nerve cells, which could lead to new treatments for preserving sight.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11011432 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of reactive astrocytes and the lipids they secrete in the neurodegenerative disease glaucoma, which leads to vision loss. The study examines how these astrocytes, which become reactive in response to injury or disease, can release neurotoxic lipids that harm retinal ganglion cells, the neurons responsible for transmitting visual information. By blocking the production of these toxic lipids, the researchers aim to preserve neuron health and function, potentially offering new avenues for treatment. The research employs both in vitro and in vivo methodologies to assess the effects of these lipids on neuron survival.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma or those at risk of developing this neurodegenerative condition.
Not a fit: Patients with non-neurodegenerative eye conditions or those without glaucoma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that prevent vision loss in patients with glaucoma.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting neurotoxic factors in neurodegenerative diseases can be effective, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liddelow, Shane — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Liddelow, Shane
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.