Understanding how microglia change in the developing retina
Official title: Microglial plasticity mechanisms in the developing retina
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11211955 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the eye, called microglia, work and change in ways that might help us understand and treat eye diseases that can cause blindness, with the hope of finding new ways to protect or restore vision for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $77,802 |
| NIH project number | 3R01EY035254-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11211955 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of retinal diseases or those experiencing early signs of vision loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with retinal conditions unrelated to microglial function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of microglia, a type of immune cell in the retina, in the development of the eye and in diseases that can lead to blindness. The study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that dictate how these cells change their state and function, particularly focusing on a specific signaling pathway involving neuron-derived proteins. By examining how microglia interact with neurons, the research seeks to identify potential targets for therapeutic intervention in retinal diseases. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how to protect or restore vision by manipulating these cellular processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for retinal diseases that cause blindness.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding microglial roles in various neurological conditions, suggesting this approach has potential.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Samuel, Melanie a — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Samuel, Melanie a
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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.