Modeling eye development processes in zebrafish and other species
Official title: Developing new biophysical models of choroid fissure closure in zebrafish and foveal pit formation across species
Funded at University of Northern Colorado · NIH-10937648 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how the eye develops by using zebrafish and other animals to create models that show how certain parts of the eye form, and it aims to help us understand eye disorders better, all while involving students in exciting hands-on research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Northern Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Greeley, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $413,920 |
| NIH project number | 1R15EY035473-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10937648 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research are individuals with developmental eye disorders such as coloboma or foveal hypoplasia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with fully developed eyes and no history of eye disorders may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the vertebrate eye develops by creating biophysical models that simulate the closure of the choroid fissure and the formation of the foveal pit. Researchers will use zebrafish and other organisms to gather experimental data, which will help refine these models for better predictive accuracy. The project involves collaboration between physics and biology, engaging undergraduate students in hands-on research activities, including designing experiments and analyzing results. The ultimate goal is to uncover the mechanisms behind developmental eye disorders and improve our understanding of eye morphogenesis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for developmental eye disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, similar research in developmental biology has shown promise in understanding morphogenetic processes.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Northern Colorado
Greeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Engstrom, Tyler — University of Northern Colorado
- Study coordinator: Engstrom, Tyler
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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.