Investigating how specific microRNAs affect retinal cell development and reprogramming.
Official title: The Role of Retinal Progenitor microRNAs for Late-stage Progenitor Cell State and Muller Glia Reprogramming
Funded at State College of Optometry · NIH-11046603 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny molecules called microRNAs to see how they help retinal cells grow and work properly, which could lead to new ways to treat vision loss from eye disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State College of Optometry NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2022 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $405,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY032532-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046603 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing age-related macular degeneration or other retinal disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with retinal conditions unrelated to microRNA dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of microRNAs in the development and function of retinal cells, particularly in preventing blindness caused by retinal disorders. The team will identify specific microRNAs that are crucial for the proper formation of retinal cells during early postnatal development. They will also explore the potential of these microRNAs to reprogram Müller glia cells into functional retinal neurons, which could lead to innovative therapies for vision restoration. By using a specialized mouse model, the researchers aim to uncover how the absence of these microRNAs affects retinal cell behavior and development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that restore vision in patients suffering from retinal diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using microRNAs for cellular reprogramming, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
State College of Optometry
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wohl, Stefanie G — State College of Optometry
- Study coordinator: Wohl, Stefanie G
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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.