Investigating how Eph-ephrin signaling affects lens health and cataract formation
Eph-ephrin signaling in the lens
This study is looking at how certain changes in the eye, especially related to cataracts and difficulty focusing as we age, happen at a cellular level, using mice to help understand how a specific protein affects lens health, with hopes of finding new ways to prevent or treat these common vision problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Trustees of Indiana University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bloomington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11045086 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind age-related lens pathologies, particularly cataracts and presbyopia, which are leading causes of visual impairment. By using mouse models, the study examines the role of EphA2 receptor and ephrin-A5 ligand in maintaining lens stability and organization. Researchers will analyze how the loss of EphA2 contributes to cataract progression and the resulting changes in lens structure. The findings aim to provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for preventing or treating these common age-related eye conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing age-related vision issues, particularly those with cataracts or presbyopia.
Not a fit: Patients with congenital lens pathologies unrelated to age or those without any lens-related visual impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments or preventive strategies for cataracts and presbyopia, improving vision and quality of life for many individuals.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of Eph-ephrin signaling in lens health, indicating potential for success in this area of research.
Where this research is happening
Bloomington, United States
- Trustees of Indiana University — Bloomington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cheng, Catherine Kehsin — Trustees of Indiana University
- Study coordinator: Cheng, Catherine Kehsin
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.