Understanding how the retina adapts in degenerative eye diseases
Official title: Functional plasticity in retinal degenerative disease
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11080347 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the cells in the eye change as we age or when there are diseases that cause vision loss, using a mouse model to find ways to improve vision even when some cells are damaged, with hopes of creating new treatments to help people see better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $385,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034986-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080347 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing vision loss due to retinal degenerative diseases, particularly those with genetic conditions like retinitis pigmentosa.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-degenerative eye conditions or those whose vision loss is not related to retinal plasticity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how retinal neurons change their properties and connections in response to aging and degenerative diseases, a process known as retinal plasticity. By studying a mouse model of a specific genetic condition that causes vision loss, the researchers aim to identify mechanisms that could enhance vision despite the loss of photoreceptors. The project focuses on understanding how these compensatory mechanisms work and their effects on light signaling in the retina. Ultimately, the goal is to develop therapies that can restore vision by leveraging these adaptive processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve or restore vision for individuals with retinal degenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding retinal plasticity and its potential for vision restoration, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vinberg, Frans — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Vinberg, Frans
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.