Investigating how to regenerate retinal ganglion cells to restore vision
Official title: Evaluation of Human Retinal Ganglion Cell Regenerative Potential
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11071112 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how we can help nerve cells in the eye grow back and possibly restore vision for people with glaucoma by using special cells made from human stem cells, which could lead to new treatments for better eyesight.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $49,538 |
| NIH project number | 1F31EY037171-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11071112 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing vision loss due to conditions like glaucoma or other diseases affecting retinal ganglion cells.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with vision loss not related to retinal ganglion cell degeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the potential for human retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) to regenerate and restore vision lost due to conditions like glaucoma. The approach involves using human stem cell-derived RGCs and exploring ways to enhance their survival and axonal regeneration. By examining intrinsic factors that may promote the growth of these cells, the research aims to develop methods for regrowing the optic nerve and restoring visual function. Patients may benefit from advancements in treatments that could eventually lead to vision restoration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that restore vision for individuals suffering from irreversible blindness caused by retinal ganglion cell loss.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cell-derived cells for retinal restoration, indicating potential success for similar approaches in regenerating retinal ganglion cells.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ceisel, Anneliese — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Ceisel, Anneliese
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.