Understanding a specific genetic cause of retinal degeneration

Characterization of DHDDS RP59 Knockin Models of Retinitis Pigmentosa

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11042720

This study is looking at a specific type of retinitis pigmentosa called RP59, which is caused by changes in a gene, and researchers are using specially designed mice to learn more about how these changes affect vision, hoping to find new ways to help people with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11042720 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on retinitis pigmentosa-59 (RP59), a genetic condition leading to retinal degeneration caused by mutations in the DHDDS gene. Researchers have created mouse models using advanced gene editing techniques to study how these mutations affect retinal health. By examining these models, the team aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms of RP59 and how it leads to vision loss, which could inform future treatments for patients with this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, particularly those with mutations in the DHDDS gene.

Not a fit: Patients with retinitis pigmentosa caused by mutations in genes other than DHDDS may not benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential therapies for patients suffering from retinitis pigmentosa and related retinal diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using similar genetic modeling approaches has shown promise in understanding and potentially treating inherited retinal diseases.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.