Understanding how light-sensitive cells in the eye build their structures
Official title: Molecular mechanisms of photoreceptor disc morphogenesis
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11053499 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how special cells in your eyes build and keep their light-sensitive parts, which are important for seeing, and it focuses on understanding how certain structures help these parts stay fresh and work well, which could help us learn more about vision problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $648,451 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY035525-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053499 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with retinal disorders or those at risk of developing vision impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-retinal vision issues or those whose vision problems are unrelated to photoreceptor function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular and molecular processes that enable photoreceptor cells in the eye to construct and maintain their light-sensitive structures, known as outer segments. These outer segments contain stacks of disc membranes that are crucial for capturing light and facilitating vision. The study focuses on the role of actin networks in the formation of these discs, which are renewed multiple times a day to ensure proper function. By identifying the mechanisms that regulate this renewal process, the research aims to enhance our understanding of vision and potential vision-related disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into vision preservation and treatments for retinal diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cellular mechanisms in vision, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Arshavsky, Vadim Y — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Arshavsky, Vadim Y
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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.