Investigating the early biological effects of Age-related Macular Degeneration using a 3D tissue model
Official title: Assessment of the Complement Pathway in a RPE/choroid Tissue Chip
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11169750 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different environmental factors might affect the early stages of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) using a special 3D model that simulates the eye's tissues, with the goal of finding new ways to help prevent the disease from getting worse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,013,515 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY036519-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11169750 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who are at risk for or have early-stage Age-related Macular Degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced stages of Age-related Macular Degeneration or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the early mechanisms of Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) by utilizing a 3D tissue chip model that mimics the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choroid. The study aims to identify how various environmental stressors affect these tissues, which are critical in the development of AMD. By creating a model that closely resembles the in vivo environment, researchers hope to uncover the biological responses that occur at the early stages of the disease. This approach may lead to better insights into potential interventions before the disease progresses.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more effective treatments for patients with Age-related Macular Degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using 3D tissue models has shown promise in understanding various diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights for AMD as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rohrer, Baerbel — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Rohrer, Baerbel
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.