Investigating how certain proteins contribute to age-related vision loss
Official title: Cellular and molecular mechanisms of AIM2 and NLRP3 inflammasome activation in age-related macular degeneration
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11013861 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune responses in the eye might contribute to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), with the hope of finding new ways to reduce inflammation and improve treatments for people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $512,164 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY033709-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11013861 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing symptoms of age-related macular degeneration, particularly those with neovascular AMD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of macular degeneration or those without any retinal diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind the activation of inflammasomes, specifically AIM2 and NLRP3, in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). By studying a genetic mouse model, the researchers aim to uncover how these inflammasomes contribute to the disease process and explore new therapeutic approaches that could inhibit inflammation without disrupting essential functions of the retina. The goal is to develop novel treatments that specifically target the underlying causes of AMD, potentially leading to better outcomes for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve vision and quality of life for patients suffering from age-related macular degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting inflammasomes for other inflammatory conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach to AMD.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marneros, Alexander Georg — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Marneros, Alexander Georg
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
AI-powered tool to predict 2-year risk of late AMD
A new AI software helps people at risk of age-related macular degeneration understand their 2-year risk and what steps could protect their vision.
-
Active cycling program to support vision and daily living in Veterans with AMD
A 6-month online group spin cycling program is tested to help Veterans with age-related macular degeneration maintain vision and improve daily functioning.
-
Transplanting stem-cell–derived retinal cells to treat dry AMD
A medical team is testing a stem cell therapy to replace damaged retinal cells in adults with dry age-related macular degeneration.
-
RPESC-derived RPE Transplant for Dry AMD in adults
A new cell-based therapy derived from RPESCs is being tested to help adults with dry age-related macular degeneration regain vision.
-
New high-resolution OCT biomarkers to map early AMD changes
A new imaging approach using advanced OCT methods will help doctors see early changes in age-related macular degeneration to guide treatment and improve quality of life for older adults.
-
Targeting inflammation in age-related macular degeneration
Aims to understand how inflammation drives age-related macular degeneration in people and explore new targets to slow or stop vision loss.
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.