Understanding how the retina develops circuits for processing motion direction
Assessing direction selectivity map development in the retina
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY · NIH-11031415
This study is looking at how certain cells in the eye help us see movement and how these cells develop and connect with each other, which could help us understand vision better and how it might be impacted in different eye conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BERKELEY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11031415 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the development of neural circuits in the retina that are responsible for detecting the direction of motion. By examining how these circuits, known as direction-selective ganglion cells, form and organize, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms that contribute to visual processing. The study will utilize advanced techniques to analyze the connections and interactions between different types of retinal cells, particularly focusing on how these connections change before and after eye opening. This work could provide insights into the fundamental processes of vision and how they may be affected in various conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who may have conditions affecting visual processing, such as Alzheimer's disease or other neurodegenerative disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with acute visual impairments unrelated to neural circuit development may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of visual processing and potentially lead to new treatments for visual impairments.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on direction selectivity in the retina is novel, similar research in neural circuit development has shown promising results in understanding visual processing.
Where this research is happening
BERKELEY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY — BERKELEY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BISTRONG, KARINA — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY
- Study coordinator: BISTRONG, KARINA
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 below.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease