NIH-funded research Fellowship grant

Understanding how retinal structure affects vision in people with albinism

Official title: Characterizing retinal function using AOSLO based psychophysics and optoretinography

Funded at Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-10994963 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how the structure of the retina affects vision in people with albinism, using special imaging tools to see how well they can see and how their eyes work throughout the day.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical College of Wisconsin
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Milwaukee, United States)
Project startAugust 1, 2024
Project endJuly 31, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$48,974
NIH project number1F31EY036692-01
Project IDNIH-10994963 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with albinism who experience visual function disruptions.

Less likely to help

Patients without retinal structure disruptions or those with conditions unrelated to albinism may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between retinal structure and visual function in individuals with albinism using advanced imaging techniques. By employing adaptive optics scanning light ophthalmoscopy (AOSLO), the study aims to measure visual acuity and explore how variations in retinal structure impact visual performance. Additionally, it will assess the functionality of individual photoreceptor cells throughout the day, considering natural changes due to circadian rhythms. This approach seeks to enhance our understanding of retinal disorders and improve diagnostic methods.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for individuals with retinal disorders, particularly those with albinism.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research using adaptive optics has shown promise in understanding retinal function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Medical College of Wisconsin
    Milwaukee, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Gaffney, Mina M — Medical College of Wisconsin
  • Study coordinator: Gaffney, Mina M

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About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.