Investigating the role of a specific molecule in the development of eye disease that causes blindness.
Official title: Role of Bruch Membrane Heparan Sulfate in Drusenogenesis in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10886293 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a molecule in the eye called heparan sulfate might play a role in the buildup of drusen, which can lead to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a common cause of vision loss in older adults, with the hope of finding new ways to help treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $254,808 |
| NIH project number | 1K08EY035322-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10886293 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for or have early to intermediate stages of age-related macular degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced age-related macular degeneration or other unrelated eye conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how heparan sulfate, a type of molecule found in the eye, contributes to the formation of drusen, which are deposits that can lead to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD is a major cause of vision loss, particularly in older adults, and currently has no effective treatments for its early stages. The study will explore the changes in heparan sulfate in the Bruch membrane of the eye as people age and how these changes may influence the development of drusen. By uncovering the mechanisms behind drusen formation, the research aims to provide insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for AMD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for age-related macular degeneration, potentially preserving vision for millions of patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of molecular changes in eye diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Toomey, Christopher B — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Toomey, Christopher B
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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AI-powered tool to predict 2-year risk of late AMD
A new AI software helps people at risk of age-related macular degeneration understand their 2-year risk and what steps could protect their vision.
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Active cycling program to support vision and daily living in Veterans with AMD
A 6-month online group spin cycling program is tested to help Veterans with age-related macular degeneration maintain vision and improve daily functioning.
-
Transplanting stem-cell–derived retinal cells to treat dry AMD
A medical team is testing a stem cell therapy to replace damaged retinal cells in adults with dry age-related macular degeneration.
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RPESC-derived RPE Transplant for Dry AMD in adults
A new cell-based therapy derived from RPESCs is being tested to help adults with dry age-related macular degeneration regain vision.
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New high-resolution OCT biomarkers to map early AMD changes
A new imaging approach using advanced OCT methods will help doctors see early changes in age-related macular degeneration to guide treatment and improve quality of life for older adults.
-
Targeting inflammation in age-related macular degeneration
Aims to understand how inflammation drives age-related macular degeneration in people and explore new targets to slow or stop vision loss.
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.