Understanding how certain eye cells can regenerate lost neurons
Mechanisms underlying Muller glia’s regenerative potential
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-11089459
This study is looking at how certain cells in the eye of zebrafish can help repair damaged nerve cells, and it hopes to find ways to help people with eye diseases do the same by understanding the signals that control this process.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11089459 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the regenerative potential of Müller glia cells in the retina, focusing on why these cells can regenerate neurons in zebrafish but not in mammals. By studying the genetic programs and signaling pathways involved, particularly the role of Notch signaling, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could enable similar regenerative responses in human retinal diseases. Patients with degenerative eye diseases may benefit from insights gained through this research, which could lead to new treatment strategies that harness the body's own stem cells for neuron regeneration.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 21 years old who are experiencing vision loss due to conditions like glaucoma, macular degeneration, or retinitis pigmentosa.
Not a fit: Patients with non-degenerative eye conditions or those who do not have retinal diseases may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that restore vision in patients suffering from degenerative retinal diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While the regenerative potential of Müller glia in zebrafish has been well-documented, translating these findings to mammals is still an emerging area of research, indicating a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR — ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: GOLDMAN, DANIEL J — UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR
- Study coordinator: GOLDMAN, DANIEL J
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 below.