M2 immune cells that drive harmful blood vessel growth in the back of the eye
Proangiogenic M2-type macrophages and choroidal neovascularization
This research will test whether stopping immune cells from becoming M2-type macrophages can slow or prevent harmful new blood vessel growth in people with wet (neovascular) age-related macular degeneration.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11142622 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying how macrophages — a type of immune cell — switch into an M2 form that promotes blood vessel growth under the retina (choroidal neovascularization) in wet AMD. They will use lab experiments and animal models that mimic human CNV and examine signaling pathways that control M1 versus M2 polarization. The team will test drugs or approaches that block M2 polarization in these models and link those findings to human disease by using existing patient data or samples. The aim is to identify molecular targets that could lead to new treatments to reduce or prevent vision loss from CNV.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration, particularly those with active choroidal neovascularization or treatment-resistant disease, would be the most relevant candidates for sample donation or future trials.
Not a fit: People without neovascular AMD (for example those with only dry AMD) or those with long-standing, irreversible central vision loss are unlikely to benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new therapies that reduce or prevent vision loss from wet AMD by blocking immune-driven abnormal blood vessel growth.
How similar studies have performed: Anti-VEGF treatments have been successful for many patients, and preclinical studies targeting macrophage-driven angiogenesis show promise, but clinical benefit in humans remains unproven.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marneros, Alexander Georg — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Marneros, Alexander Georg
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.