Understanding how mutations affect the movement of photoreceptor cells in the retina.
Official title: Investigating Photoreceptor Nuclear Migration Defects Caused by Loss of Retinitis Pigmentosa 2.
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11110329 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain genetic changes affect the movement of important cells in the eye that help us see, and it aims to help people with inherited eye diseases understand more about their vision problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $496,819 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY036019-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11110329 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with inherited retinal diseases, particularly those with mutations in the ARL3 or RP2 genes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with retinal diseases not linked to the ARL3 or RP2 genes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of specific genetic mutations on the movement of photoreceptor nuclei within the retina, which is crucial for proper vision. By studying the ARL3 gene and its role in photoreceptor development, the research aims to uncover how these mutations lead to blindness. The approach includes examining animal models to observe the effects of these mutations on cell behavior and function. Patients with inherited retinal diseases may gain insights into their conditions through this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating inherited retinal diseases and preventing blindness.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic mutations related to retinal diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pearring, Jillian Nydam — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Pearring, Jillian Nydam
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Inflammation in MERTK-related retinitis pigmentosa
This project aims to understand whether losing the MERTK gene causes retinal inflammation that leads to vision loss in people with MERTK-related retinitis pigmentosa.
-
Enhancing cone survival in RP through targeted cell-specific CRISPR therapy
A patient-friendly look at a new approach to protect cone cells in retinitis pigmentosa using precise gene editing to support vision.
-
Oral, once-daily MC16 medicine for retinitis pigmentosa
A gene-mutation-agnostic pill (MC16) is being studied to help people with retinitis pigmentosa by addressing a common cellular problem in the eye.
-
Role of IPM Proteoglycans in Retinal Health and Inherited Blindness
This grant studies how specific retinal extracellular matrix proteins (IMPG1 and IMPG2) affect eye health and contribute to retinitis pigmentosa, with potential implications for people who have or are at risk for inherited blindness.
-
NAC Attack: a late-stage trial for preserving vision in RP patients
A large, multi-site study is testing whether taking a daily NAC pill can help people with retinitis pigmentosa keep more of their vision.
-
Non-invasive biomarker for mitochondria health in retinitis pigmentosa
Aims to test a new, non-invasive OCT-based biomarker to explain and predict how mitochondria function affects cone cells in people with retinitis pigmentosa.
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.