Investigating the impact of a special fish oil on eye health and disease
Official title: Elucidating the Role of Very-long-chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Retinal Health and Disease
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11043157 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new fish oil supplement that might help improve heart health and protect your vision, especially for those at risk of age-related macular degeneration, and it invites patients to see if this supplement can make a difference for their eye health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $30,000 |
| NIH project number | 3R01EY034497-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11043157 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults at risk for age-related macular degeneration or those experiencing early signs of vision loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to retinal health or those who are not at risk for age-related macular degeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how a novel fish oil supplement, rich in very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLCPUFAs), can affect heart health and vision. The study aims to understand the role of these specific fatty acids in the body, particularly in the retina, and how they may help prevent or slow down age-related macular degeneration (AMD). By examining the effects of VLCPUFAs on visual function and cardiometabolic risk factors, the research seeks to provide insights into potential treatments for conditions that lead to blindness. Patients may be involved in trials to assess the effectiveness of this supplement in improving their eye health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new dietary interventions that improve vision and reduce the risk of blindness in aging populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids can have beneficial effects on eye health, but the specific role of VLCPUFAs in treating AMD is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bernstein, Paul Steven — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Bernstein, Paul Steven
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.