Understanding how a protein affects the development of retinal cells

Functions of chromatin remodeler Chd7 in retinal cell development

NIH-funded research University of Kentucky · NIH-10915417

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project IDNIH-10915417 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with CHARGE syndrome or related retinal disorders caused by CHD7 mutations.

Not a fit: Patients without CHD7 mutations or those not affected by retinal disorders may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Lexington, 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.
Conditions CHARGE syndrome
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.