Understanding how proteins essential for vision are properly folded.
Official title: Mechanisms of chaperone-mediated folding of beta-propeller proteins essential for vision.
Funded at Brigham Young University · NIH-11022839 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special protein complex helps other proteins that are important for our eyesight, with the goal of understanding certain vision problems and finding better treatments for people affected by them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham Young University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Provo, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $468,161 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EY036925-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11022839 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Leber Congenital Amaurosis or related vision disorders linked to protein folding issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with vision disorders not related to protein folding or those without genetic mutations affecting CCT may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein complex called CCT in folding other proteins that are crucial for vision. By studying how CCT assists in the proper formation of these proteins, particularly those involved in visual processes, the research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind certain vision-related diseases. The approach includes determining the structures of specific proteins and their mutations that lead to conditions like Leber Congenital Amaurosis. This knowledge could help in developing targeted therapies for patients affected by these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for vision disorders caused by protein misfolding.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding protein folding mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham Young University
Provo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Willardson, Barry M — Brigham Young University
- Study coordinator: Willardson, Barry M
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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.