Understanding how the brain processes visual information after vision loss
Official title: Neural mechanisms of sensory encoding after photoreceptor degeneration
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11062166 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the brain adjusts when it loses important cells for seeing, especially in people with age-related macular degeneration, to help find better ways to restore vision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $80,020 |
| NIH project number | 1F32EY037105-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11062166 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing vision loss due to age-related macular degeneration or similar retinal conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with intact photoreceptor function or those with conditions unrelated to retinal degeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's neural circuits adapt to the loss of photoreceptors, which are crucial for vision, particularly in conditions like age-related macular degeneration. By examining the responses of specific retinal cells to visual stimuli, the study aims to uncover how these circuits compensate for the loss of input from damaged photoreceptors. The research employs both empirical measurements and simulations to analyze neural activity and its impact on visual behaviors, focusing on a reflex that tracks motion in the visual field. This understanding could lead to improved strategies for vision restoration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the development of therapies aimed at restoring vision in individuals with retinal degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding neural adaptations in similar contexts, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Balraj, Annika — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Balraj, Annika
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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.