Preventing vision loss in age-related macular degeneration
Official title: Inhibiting Neovascularization and Subretinal Fibrosis in Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10873235 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how age-related macular degeneration (AMD) can lead to worsening vision due to a condition called subretinal fibrosis, and it's trying to find new treatments that could help protect your eyesight and improve your overall vision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $615,699 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034975-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10873235 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are diagnosed with neovascular age-related macular degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neovascular forms of age-related macular degeneration or other unrelated eye conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness, particularly its neovascular form which causes severe vision loss. The study aims to understand the molecular mechanisms that lead to subretinal fibrosis, a condition that worsens vision despite existing treatments. By exploring how certain cellular transitions contribute to this fibrosis, the research seeks to develop new drug therapies that can inhibit these processes and improve patient outcomes. Patients may benefit from innovative treatments that not only target the neovascularization but also prevent further damage to the retina.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly reduce vision loss in patients with age-related macular degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in other ocular conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Weiquan (Wendy) — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Weiquan (Wendy)
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Inhibiting new blood vessel growth and scarring under the retina in AMD
This grant tests drug-based strategies to prevent abnormal blood vessel growth and scarring under the retina in adults with age-related macular degeneration.
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Stopping abnormal blood vessel growth and scar tissue under the retina in wet age-related macular degeneration
This project tests new drug approaches to prevent abnormal blood vessels and scarring under the retina in adults with neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration.
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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.
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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.
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.