Investigating the role of FGF21 in retinal health and age-related vision loss
Official title: FGF21 as a mediator of RPE mitochondrial dysfunction
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11042735 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a molecule called FGF21 affects the health of important eye cells that help us see, especially in people with age-related macular degeneration, to find new ways to protect vision as we get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $504,084 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034002-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11042735 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing age-related macular degeneration or those at risk for this condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-age-related vision issues or those without retinal health concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how FGF21, a signaling molecule, influences the health of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells, which are crucial for the survival of photoreceptors in the eye. By using mouse models, the study aims to explore the effects of mitochondrial dysfunction in RPE cells and how FGF21 may propagate damage to the retina. The researchers will assess both the loss and gain of FGF21 function to determine its impact on retinal health, particularly in the context of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). This work could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for preserving vision in aging populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect against vision loss in patients with age-related macular degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial dysfunction in retinal health, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vollrath, Douglas E. — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Vollrath, Douglas E.
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.