Understanding how a protein affects the development of retinal cells
Official title: Functions of chromatin remodeler Chd7 in retinal cell development
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-10915417 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called CHD7 helps develop the cells in our eyes that are important for vision, using zebrafish and mice to learn more about how it affects these cells; the findings could help us understand eye problems linked to changes in the CHD7 gene.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $614,672 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY035110-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10915417 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with CHARGE syndrome or related retinal disorders caused by CHD7 mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without CHD7 mutations or those not affected by retinal disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the CHD7 protein in the development of retinal cells, particularly focusing on its impact on photoreceptor differentiation and outer segment formation. By using zebrafish and mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover how CHD7 influences gene activation necessary for proper retinal cell development. The study will involve advanced techniques like ATAC sequencing to analyze chromatin accessibility and gene expression in developing retinal cells. This research could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of retinal disorders associated with CHD7 mutations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating retinal disorders linked to CHD7 mutations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of chromatin remodeling in cell differentiation, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morris, Ann C — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Morris, Ann C
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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.