Understanding how certain cells in the retina produce dopamine
Official title: Mechanisms that govern dopaminergic amacrine cell diversity
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-10906938 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special cells in the eye that help with vision and sleep patterns, and it aims to find ways to boost the number of these cells to help people with vision problems caused by low dopamine levels.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | September 29, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $76,756 |
| NIH project number | 5F32EY034358-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906938 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with visual disorders related to dopamine signaling, particularly those over 21 years old.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with visual disorders not linked to dopamine signaling may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of dopaminergic amacrine cells in the retina, which are essential for regulating vision and circadian rhythms. By exploring the molecular mechanisms that control the formation of these cells, the study aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for restoring dopamine levels in the retina. The researchers are particularly focused on a signaling pathway involving the LKB1 protein, which, when manipulated, can increase the number of these dopamine-producing cells. This could lead to innovative treatments for visual disorders linked to reduced dopamine signaling.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that restore vision in patients suffering from conditions like diabetic retinopathy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using dopamine analogues for treating visual disorders, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mackin, Robert — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Mackin, Robert
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.