Understanding how gene regulation affects eye development

Wiring and rewiring of the chromatin landscape during retinogenesis

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11169874

This study is looking at how genes and other factors help shape the retina, which is important for vision, and it's aimed at understanding conditions like anophthalmia and microphthalmia to find better ways to diagnose and treat these eye problems.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-11169874 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the critical processes involved in the development of the retina, particularly focusing on how genetic and epigenetic factors influence retinal progenitor cells. By using advanced genomic technologies and mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms that lead to ocular disorders such as anophthalmia and microphthalmia. The study will explore how transcription factors and chromatin structure interact to regulate gene expression during retinal differentiation. Ultimately, the findings could provide insights into potential diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for congenital vision disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years who are affected by congenital eye disorders such as anophthalmia or microphthalmia.

Not a fit: Patients with acquired eye conditions or those outside the age range of 0-11 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for diagnosing and treating congenital eye disorders in children.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding gene regulation in other developmental disorders, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, 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 2026-06-15 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.