Regulation of how ipRGCs respond to light in the eye
Official title: Regulation of the intrinsic melanopsin-based light response in ipRGCs
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore County · NIH-11452778 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study exploring how specific light-detecting cells in the eye send signals that influence sleep, mood, and daily rhythms, with potential relevance to people who have sleep or mood concerns.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore County NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2017 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $736,874 |
| NIH project number | 2R01EY027202-10A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11452778 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
This research is basic-science, not a patient intervention, so no specific patient group is enrolled.
✕Less likely to help
There are no direct patient participants in this foundational study.
What this research studies
Researchers at the University of Maryland Baltimore County are investigating the different subtypes of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) and how their light-detecting pathways affect behaviors like sleep, wakefulness, and circadian rhythms. By examining the signaling pathways and phototransduction components in ipRGCs, they aim to clarify why these cells influence mood and memory beyond basic vision. The work uses animal models and neural assays to map how various pathways contribute to light-driven responses that could relate to human circadian health. Findings could eventually inform strategies to manage sleep disorders and mood-related issues linked to light exposure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding ipRGC signaling could lead to new approaches for improving sleep, mood, and circadian health in people.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown ipRGC diversity and multiple phototransduction pathways, but the exact components and their behavioral roles remain to be clarified.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore County
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Robinson, Phyllis R — University of Maryland Baltimore County
- Study coordinator: Robinson, Phyllis R
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.