Investigating how proline metabolism affects eye health in aging
Proline metabolism in retinal health
['FUNDING_R01'] · WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY · NIH-11066444
This study is looking at how a special building block called proline affects the health of eye cells important for vision, especially in older adults with age-related macular degeneration, to find new ways to help protect their eyesight.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MORGANTOWN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11066444 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of proline, an amino acid, in the health of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, which are crucial for vision. The study aims to explore how altered proline metabolism may contribute to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in older adults. Using advanced techniques such as mass spectrometry and live imaging, researchers will investigate the metabolic processes in RPE cells and how they are affected in AMD. By studying genetically modified mouse models, the research seeks to uncover the mechanisms behind retinal degeneration and identify potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for or have been diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration.
Not a fit: Patients with retinal diseases unrelated to age-related macular degeneration may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or slow down vision loss in patients with age-related macular degeneration.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding metabolic pathways in retinal health, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
MORGANTOWN, UNITED STATES
- WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY — MORGANTOWN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DU, JIANHAI — WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: DU, JIANHAI
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.
Conditions: age related macular disease