Understanding a Protein's Role in Macular Degeneration
Delineating the role of TIMP3 in macular degeneration
This research helps us understand how a protein called TIMP3 contributes to eye conditions like age-related macular degeneration and Sorsby's fundus dystrophy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11099747 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The grant aims to understand how the buildup of a protein called TIMP3 in the eye contributes to diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Sorsby's fundus dystrophy (SFD). Researchers are using special models created from stem cells, called iPSC-RPE-CC models, which mimic key features of both healthy and diseased eyes. These models help them observe how TIMP3 accumulation happens early in the disease process and leads to problems like drusen and abnormal blood vessel growth. By studying these models, we hope to uncover the exact steps that lead to vision loss in these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for anyone interested in the underlying causes of age-related macular degeneration and Sorsby's fundus dystrophy.
Not a fit: Patients with eye conditions unrelated to age-related macular degeneration or Sorsby's fundus dystrophy may not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat age-related macular degeneration and Sorsby's fundus dystrophy by targeting TIMP3.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of TIMP3 in these diseases is known, this grant uses novel stem cell models to precisely understand its early pathological mechanisms, building on existing knowledge.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singh, Ruchira — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Singh, Ruchira
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.