Role of S100 Proteins in the Eye Lens and Cataract
Official title: Role of the S100 Family of Proteins in Lens Physiology and Cataract
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11384546 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study at Duke University will explore how S100 family proteins affect lens clarity and shape to understand why cataracts develop.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $402,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034450-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11384546 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Not applicable for immediate patient enrollment; findings may inform future human studies and potential therapies for cataracts.
✕Less likely to help
Current participants are not recruited; results may not directly impact individuals in the near term.
What this research studies
Researchers are investigating how S100 calcium-binding proteins function in the eye lens, focusing on their distribution in lens cells and their impact on transparency and mechanical properties. The project builds on prior findings that certain S100 proteins are present in the lens and that loss of S100A4 can lead to cataract-like changes in mice. Using mouse models and lens tissue analyses, the study aims to map how these proteins interact with cytoskeletal components like non-muscle myosin II and actin. The goal is to uncover molecular pathways that govern lens architecture and vulnerability to cataract formation, which could guide future therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal targets for preventing or delaying cataracts and preserving vision.
How similar studies have gone: Previous data show S100 proteins influence lens biology in mice, suggesting potential relevance to human cataract mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rao, P Vasantha — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Rao, P Vasantha
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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.