Understanding how a protein interacts with cholesterol in the eye lens to cause cataracts
Official title: Interaction of alpha-crystallin with cholesterol bilayer domains in cataract formation
Funded at Boise State University · NIH-10862407 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called alpha-crystallin interacts with cholesterol in the eye lens, which could help us understand how cataracts form as we get older, with the hope of finding ways to prevent or even reverse them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boise State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boise, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2019 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $352,890 |
| NIH project number | 2R01EY030067-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-10862407 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of developing cataracts, particularly older adults.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cataracts caused by factors unrelated to protein interactions or cholesterol may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called alpha-crystallin in the development of cataracts, focusing on how it binds to cholesterol in the membranes of eye lens cells. The study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind this binding process, which is crucial for maintaining lens transparency. By using advanced techniques like atomic force microscopy and spectroscopy, researchers will explore how changes in protein behavior contribute to cataract formation, especially as people age. The ultimate goal is to identify ways to prevent or reverse cataract development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cataracts, potentially improving vision for millions of patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding protein interactions in cataract formation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Boise State University
Boise, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mainali, Laxman — Boise State University
- Study coordinator: Mainali, Laxman
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
How the aging lens affects vision and what we can do about it
This grant studies how aging changes lens water and ion balance to cause cataracts and presbyopia, with the goal of better preserving vision for aging adults.
-
Glutaredoxin and aging: how it affects cataracts and new treatment ideas
A research project explores how aging affects the lens of the eye and tests new ways to prevent or treat cataracts by studying antioxidant repair and inflammation.
-
Cataracts and Work Exposures in Denmark
A large Danish study will look at whether job-related exposures, both chemical and non-chemical, are linked to developing cataracts.
-
Tele-mentoring with an ultra-portable surgical microscope to treat cataracts in underserved communities
A portable medical microscope with remote mentoring helps doctors in underserved areas perform cataract surgery more safely and effectively for people who need it.
-
Cataract Surgery and its Possible Impact on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias
This project explores whether fixing vision through cataract surgery could influence the progression and onset of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
-
Role of S100 Proteins in the Eye Lens and Cataract
A study at Duke University will explore how S100 family proteins affect lens clarity and shape to understand why cataracts develop.
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.