Investigating the interaction between endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria in corneal cells
Understanding Endoplasmic Reticulum-Mitochondrial Cross-Talk in Corneal Endothelial Cells
This study is looking at how stress in certain cell parts affects energy production in the eye's corneal cells, especially for people with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy, to help find new ways to treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10820471 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how stress in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) affects mitochondrial function in corneal endothelial cells, particularly in patients with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (FECD). The study aims to explore the balance between oxidants and antioxidants and how this imbalance leads to cell damage and death. By using mouse models and cultured cell lines, researchers will assess the impact of ER stress on mitochondrial health and energy production. The findings could provide insights into the mechanisms of FECD and potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy, particularly those experiencing symptoms related to corneal endothelial cell loss.
Not a fit: Patients without Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy or those with other unrelated corneal conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve corneal health and prevent vision loss in patients with FECD.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on ER-mitochondrial interactions in corneal cells is novel, related research has shown success in understanding cellular stress responses in other tissues.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kumar, Varun — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Kumar, Varun
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 below.