Understanding how human retinal cells grow and connect during development and disease
Official title: Modeling axon growth and pathfinding of human retinal ganglion cells during development and disease
Funded at Albert Einstein College of Medicine · NIH-11028776 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how certain eye cells that help us see develop and grow, especially in conditions like glaucoma that can cause vision loss, with the hope of finding new ways to help restore sight.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albert Einstein College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $414,711 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EY036964-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11028776 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing vision loss due to retinal diseases, particularly glaucoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with retinal conditions unrelated to RGC degeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the development of human retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), which are crucial for transmitting visual signals to the brain. By creating advanced human organoid models, the study aims to investigate the mechanisms of RGC differentiation, axon growth, and pathfinding, particularly in the context of diseases like glaucoma that lead to blindness. The approach involves using microphysiological systems to replicate human-like conditions, allowing for a better understanding of how these cells develop and function. This could pave the way for potential therapies aimed at regenerating RGCs and restoring vision.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that restore vision in patients suffering from retinal diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using organoid models to study retinal development, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Albert Einstein College of Medicine
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Wei — Albert Einstein College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Liu, Wei
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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.