Understanding how to help the retina heal itself

Epigenetic Regulation of Retinal Regeneration

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · NIH-11001583

This study is looking at how certain cells in the eye can help heal damaged retina tissue, using zebrafish as a model since they can fully regenerate their retinas, and the goal is to find ways to apply this knowledge to develop new treatments for people with retinal diseases.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (nih funded)
Locations1 site (AUSTIN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11001583 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind retinal regeneration, particularly focusing on how certain cells in the retina, called Müller glia, can be stimulated to regenerate damaged retinal tissue. By studying zebrafish, which can fully regenerate their retinas, researchers aim to uncover the molecular processes that allow this regeneration to occur. The study will explore the role of specific genes and epigenetic changes that could potentially be manipulated to enhance regenerative responses in mammals, including humans. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for degenerative retinal diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from degenerative retinal diseases or those at risk of retinal damage.

Not a fit: Patients with non-degenerative eye conditions or those without retinal damage may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that restore vision in patients with retinal damage.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in using similar approaches to stimulate retinal regeneration in animal models, indicating potential for success in human applications.

Where this research is happening

AUSTIN, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.