Understanding how to selectively inhibit gap junction channels that affect vision.
Official title: Structural basis of selective inhibition toward gap junction channels involved in vision.
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10901481 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain channels in the eye help keep our vision clear and healthy, especially as we age or if we have certain genetic changes, and it hopes to find new treatments that can improve vision and prevent eye problems like cataracts and glaucoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $76,756 |
| NIH project number | 1F32EY036283-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10901481 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with age-related eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, or retinopathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with eye conditions not related to gap junction dysfunction or those without any vision impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of gap junction channels in vision, particularly how they maintain lens homeostasis and transmit electrical signals in the retina. It focuses on the effects of age-related stress and genetic mutations on specific connexins linked to eye conditions like cataracts and glaucoma. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to develop more effective pharmacological tools that can selectively target these channels without causing unwanted side effects. Patients may benefit from new treatments that could improve vision and prevent eye diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve vision and prevent blindness caused by eye diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting gap junctions for therapeutic purposes, but this approach is still relatively novel and untested in the context of vision.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Souza, Samson — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Souza, Samson
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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.