Investigating how specific proteins affect retinal cell development
Official title: Homeostasis of the Retinal Epigenome
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10938189 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein called H3.3 affects the growth of retinal cells, which could help us understand why some people lose their vision, and it might lead to new ways to help those with retinal diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $388,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EY036368-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10938189 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic predispositions to retinal diseases or those experiencing vision loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with retinal conditions unrelated to genetic factors or those who do not have a family history of retinal disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a specific protein variant, H3.3, in the development of retinal cells. By examining how this protein influences the differentiation and fate of retinal cells, the researchers aim to uncover mechanisms that could lead to vision loss. The study employs advanced techniques to analyze genetic modifications and their effects on retinal cell types, using mouse models to simulate human conditions. Patients may benefit from insights gained about retinal diseases linked to these genetic factors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating vision loss associated with retinal disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of epigenetic modifications in retinal development, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ruzycki, Philip Andrew — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Ruzycki, Philip Andrew
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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.