Investigating the role of PPARα in age-related macular degeneration
Dysregulation of PPARα in RPE degeneration
This study is looking at how a protein called PPARα affects the health of the eye in people with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and it hopes to find ways to protect the retina and improve treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11077873 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the dysregulation of a protein called PPARα contributes to the degeneration of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) in dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms behind lipid metabolism disturbances in the RPE, which are believed to play a significant role in the progression of dry AMD. By examining human donor tissues and animal models, the researchers will assess how activating PPARα may protect against retinal damage. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for dry AMD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with dry age-related macular degeneration.
Not a fit: Patients with wet age-related macular degeneration or other unrelated retinal conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for dry age-related macular degeneration, addressing a significant unmet clinical need.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that targeting lipid metabolism can be beneficial in retinal diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Winston-Salem, United States
- Wake Forest University Health Sciences — Winston-Salem, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ma, Jian-Xing — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Ma, Jian-Xing
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.