Understanding how certain immune cells affect eye healing

Macrophage Determinants of Retinal Regeneration

NIH-funded research University of Idaho · NIH-10912658

This study is looking at how certain immune cells help zebrafish heal their eye tissue after injury, with the hope that what we learn can lead to new treatments for people with eye diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Idaho NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Moscow, United States)
Project IDNIH-10912658 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the roles of microglia and macrophages, which are types of immune cells, in the regeneration of retinal tissue using zebrafish as a model organism. Zebrafish have a unique ability to regenerate their retinas after injury, unlike humans. The study aims to uncover how these immune cells contribute to both the healing process and potential pathology in the retina, with the goal of developing new therapeutic strategies for retinal diseases in humans. By understanding these mechanisms, researchers hope to find ways to enhance retinal regeneration in people suffering from degenerative eye conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from retinal degeneration or acute retinal injuries.

Not a fit: Patients with retinal conditions that are not related to degeneration or acute injury may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that promote retinal healing and regeneration in patients with eye diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell roles in tissue regeneration, but this specific approach using zebrafish is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Moscow, 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.