Understanding how the eye movement reflex works

Retinal mechanisms underlying the optokinetic reflex

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11211956

This study is looking at how certain eye movements, called the optokinetic reflex, work by exploring special cells in the eye, with the goal of helping doctors better diagnose vision problems and neurological conditions.

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-11211956 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the optokinetic reflex (OKR), which is a critical eye movement response used to diagnose various visual and neurological disorders. By examining specific types of retinal ganglion cells, the study aims to uncover how these cells influence eye movements in response to visual stimuli. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze the properties of these cells and their role in processing visual information, ultimately aiming to improve diagnostic methods for patients with visual impairments.

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 visual function and no neurological issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

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

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the mechanisms of the optokinetic reflex, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

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 2026-06-13 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.