Protecting retinal nerve cells and helping their axons regrow
CaMKII: Retinal Ganglion Cell Neuroprotection and Axon Regeneration
['FUNDING_R01'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11285137
Looks for ways to keep retinal nerve cells alive while allowing their nerve fibers to regrow for people with glaucoma or optic nerve injury.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | STANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11285137 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project works in the lab and in mouse models to understand how a protein called CaMKII can both protect retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and, unexpectedly, block their axon regrowth. Scientists use gene-delivery tools (like AAVs) to turn on different forms of CaMKII in specific parts of the cell and then measure RGC survival and axon regeneration after optic nerve injury. They also study related genes such as CREB and NF-κB to see which pathways support survival versus which block growth. The goal is to design strategies that preserve RGCs without preventing the axon repair needed to restore vision.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with glaucoma or recent optic nerve injury who have retinal ganglion cell damage would be the main candidates for future therapies developed from this research.
Not a fit: People whose vision loss is due to non-neural causes (for example cataracts) or who have very advanced, irreversible optic nerve loss are unlikely to benefit from these specific approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to therapies that both protect retinal ganglion cells and enable optic nerve repair, helping preserve or restore vision in glaucoma patients.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal studies showed CaMKII activation can powerfully protect retinal ganglion cells but also can suppress axon regrowth, so components of this approach are promising but need refinement.
Where this research is happening
STANFORD, UNITED STATES
- STANFORD UNIVERSITY — STANFORD, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KAPILOFF, MICHAEL SETH — STANFORD UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: KAPILOFF, MICHAEL SETH
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.