Understanding how the eye movement reflex works

Retinal mechanisms underlying the optokinetic reflex

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11005035

This study is looking at how certain eye movements, which help doctors understand vision and brain issues, work by exploring special cells in the eye, with the goal of creating better tools for diagnosing patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11005035 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the optokinetic reflex (OKR), a critical eye movement response that helps diagnose various visual and neurological disorders. By examining specific types of retinal ganglion cells, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that influence eye movements in response to visual stimuli. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze how these cells process information and contribute to the OKR, ultimately seeking to translate these findings into improved diagnostic tools for patients. The focus is on understanding both individual cell properties and their collective behavior in the context of eye movement.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing visual or neurological disorders that affect eye movement.

Not a fit: Patients with stable vision and no neurological issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic methods for visual and neurological disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in understanding the mechanisms of the optokinetic reflex, indicating that this research builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.