Investigating how folate affects nerve cell regeneration in the eye
Official title: Defining folate-dependent single-cell methylomic and transcriptomic networks in distinct retinal ganglion cell types associated with axon regeneration
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10952414 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain eye cells can heal and grow back after being hurt, and it’s for anyone interested in finding new ways to treat vision loss from nerve damage.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | September 29, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $427,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY036591-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10952414 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced optic nerve injuries or conditions leading to vision loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-axon related vision impairments or those without optic nerve injuries may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how certain nerve cells in the eye, known as retinal ganglion cells, can survive and regenerate after injury. By isolating and analyzing these cells, the researchers aim to identify specific genetic and biochemical changes that occur during the regeneration process. They are particularly interested in the role of DNA methylation, which is influenced by folate, in promoting the regeneration of these cells. The study uses advanced techniques like genome sequencing to uncover the differences between regenerating and non-regenerating cells, which could lead to new treatments for conditions like blindness caused by nerve damage.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that enhance nerve regeneration and restore vision in patients with optic nerve injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing nerve regeneration through biochemical pathways, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
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University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Iskandar, Bermans J — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Iskandar, Bermans J
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.