Understanding how to regenerate eyes using a frog model

Regulation of Eye Regrowth in Xenopus laevmis

NIH-funded research University of Nevada Las Vegas · NIH-10880668

This study is looking at how the clawed frog can regrow its eyes to help us understand how to encourage our own eye cells to heal better after injury, which could lead to new treatments for eye problems in people.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Nevada Las Vegas NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Las Vegas, United States)
Project IDNIH-10880668 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind eye regeneration using the clawed frog, Xenopus laevis, which has the ability to regrow functional eyes. The study focuses on identifying the signaling pathways and cell types necessary for effective tissue repair, particularly the role of bioelectrical signaling in promoting stem cell proliferation after injury. By exploring these processes, the research aims to uncover how to stimulate eye-specific stem cells for potential therapeutic applications in humans. The findings could provide insights into regenerative medicine and eye health.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with eye injuries or degenerative eye conditions who are seeking innovative treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with stable eye conditions that do not involve injury or degeneration may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for eye injuries or diseases that impair vision.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using bioelectrical signaling for limb regeneration, suggesting potential for similar breakthroughs in eye regeneration.

Where this research is happening

Las Vegas, 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.