Understanding how a specific protein affects eye growth and vision errors

Characterizing the Molecular Mechanisms of PRSS56-Dependent Ocular Growth and Refractive Error

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11101057

This study is looking at how certain proteins, especially one called PRSS56, affect eye growth and can lead to vision issues like myopia, so that people with these conditions can better understand what’s happening with their eyes and potentially find new ways to improve their vision.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11101057 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the molecular and genetic factors that control eye growth and the development of refractive errors like myopia, which can lead to vision loss. By focusing on a protein called PRSS56, the study aims to uncover how it influences the growth of the eye during both prenatal and postnatal stages. The researchers will explore the signaling processes between the retina and the sclera that contribute to proper eye development and how disruptions in these processes can lead to conditions like myopia. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the underlying mechanisms of their vision problems.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing myopia or other refractive errors, particularly those with a family history of these conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with refractive errors unrelated to genetic factors or those who have already undergone corrective surgeries may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating refractive errors and associated vision loss.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic and molecular mechanisms of eye growth, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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 2026-06-09 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.