Understanding how synaptic ribbons affect retinal function
Official title: The contributions of synaptic ribbons to retinal circuit function and assembly
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11165597 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny structures in the eye called synaptic ribbons help send visual information to the brain, especially how they work when the light changes, to better understand how we see.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $40,367 |
| NIH project number | 1F31EY037585-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11165597 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing visual processing issues or retinal diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to retinal function or those who do not have visual processing disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of synaptic ribbons in the retina, which are crucial for transmitting visual information from photoreceptors to the brain. By examining how these ribbons influence the activity of specific retinal ganglion cells under varying light conditions, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind visual signal processing. The approach involves advanced techniques like 2-photon microscopy to measure synaptic inputs and assess how glutamate release is regulated during light adaptation. This research could provide insights into the fundamental processes of vision and how the retina adapts to different lighting environments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of visual processing and potentially lead to new treatments for retinal disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding retinal function through similar methodologies, indicating that this approach is grounded in established scientific principles.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schultz, Andrew Timothy — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Schultz, Andrew Timothy
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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.