Understanding how photoreceptors communicate with other neurons in the retina
Official title: Structural landscape of photoreceptor synapses
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10877200 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how special cells in the eye work together to help us see, and it aims to find new ways to treat vision problems caused by these cells not working properly.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $483,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034339-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10877200 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with congenital stationary blindness or various forms of rod/cone dystrophies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with retinal conditions unrelated to photoreceptor dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the intricate connections between photoreceptor cells and bipolar neurons in the retina, which are crucial for vision. By using advanced imaging techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the study aims to reveal the molecular structures that facilitate communication between these cells. Understanding these synaptic interactions could provide insights into various blinding conditions caused by photoreceptor dysfunction. The ultimate goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets to improve treatment strategies for retinal diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for blindness caused by retinal diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding retinal cell communication, making this approach a continuation of successful investigations in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Martemyanov, Kirill a. — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Martemyanov, Kirill a.
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.