Understanding how osteopontin affects aging eyes and macular degeneration
Official title: Deciphering the role of osteopontin in the aging eye and age-related macular degeneration
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10872169 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called osteopontin affects eye health as we age, especially in relation to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), to find new ways to help treat this common cause of vision loss in older adults.
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 | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $459,739 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY035126-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10872169 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are experiencing or at risk for age-related macular degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without any signs of age-related macular degeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of osteopontin, a protein involved in inflammation and cellular processes, in the aging eye and its connection to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The study aims to uncover the complex mechanisms behind retinal pigment epithelial dysfunction and atrophy in AMD, which is a leading cause of vision loss in older adults. By exploring how osteopontin influences inflammation and other cellular functions, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets for treating dry AMD, a condition currently lacking effective treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for age-related macular degeneration, potentially improving vision and quality of life for affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of osteopontin in other neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for AMD as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Malek, Goldis — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Malek, Goldis
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Understanding how a protein called osteopontin affects aging eyes and dry age-related macular degeneration
A researcher at Duke is studying how osteopontin, a protein involved in inflammation, may contribute to aging of the eye and the most common cause of vision loss in older adults.
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Osteopontin's role in aging eyes and macular degeneration
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Transplanting stem-cell–derived retinal cells to treat dry AMD
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RPESC-derived RPE Transplant for Dry AMD in adults
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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.