Investigating the link between a virus and age-related vision loss
Official title: Ocular MCMV latency and AMD-like pathology
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11091498 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a common virus called human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) might be linked to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), which can cause vision loss in older people, to help find better treatments for those with AMD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $385,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034844-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11091498 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, particularly those over the age of 65, who are at risk for or currently experiencing age-related macular degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without any signs of age-related macular degeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the potential connection between human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. The study involves examining how HCMV may contribute to the progression of AMD by analyzing immune responses and viral presence in eye tissues. Researchers will utilize mouse models to understand the mechanisms of viral latency and its effects on retinal health, aiming to uncover new insights into AMD pathology. By identifying these links, the research seeks to inform future treatment strategies for patients affected by AMD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for preventing or treating age-related macular degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of viral infections in ocular diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Ming — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Ming
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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.