Understanding how special eye cells detect light
Melanopsin Photoreception and Signaling
['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11092239
This research explores unique light-sensing cells in the eye that use a pigment called melanopsin to detect light, influencing our body clock and pupil responses.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11092239 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores a unique type of light-sensing cell in your eye, called ipRGCs, which are different from the familiar rods and cones. These cells contain a special pigment called melanopsin and play a key role in functions like setting your internal body clock and controlling how your pupils react to light. Scientists are working to understand how these cells detect light and send signals to the brain, including identifying the specific molecules involved in this process. By learning more about the different kinds of ipRGCs and how they work, we hope to gain a complete picture of this important visual system.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but future studies stemming from this work might benefit individuals with circadian rhythm disruptions or specific visual impairments.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention for their conditions would not find direct benefit from this basic science investigation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Understanding these cells better could lead to new ways to help people with sleep disorders, light sensitivity, or certain vision problems related to how the eye processes light intensity.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has identified several key molecular components involved in how these special eye cells detect light, suggesting a promising foundation for this continued exploration.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: YAU, KING-WAI — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: YAU, KING-WAI
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 below.