Understanding how visual signals are processed in the retina
Official title: Synaptic mechanisms and circuitry of retinal interneurons
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11060041 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how signals from light are passed through different cells in the retina, which is important for vision, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding how our eyes work better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $517,134 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034652-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11060041 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals with retinal disorders or those interested in the biological mechanisms of vision.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to retinal function or those not experiencing visual processing issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the transmission of visual signals from the outer to the inner retina, focusing on the synaptic mechanisms and circuits involving cone bipolar cells and their connections to ganglion and amacrine cells. Using advanced techniques like dual patch-clamp recording and two-photon optical imaging, the study aims to correlate the anatomical structure of these cells with their physiological functions. By examining these interactions in the mouse retina, the research seeks to fill gaps in our understanding of retinal processing and how visual information is relayed to the brain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for retinal disorders and enhance our understanding of visual processing.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in understanding retinal circuitry and synaptic mechanisms, indicating that this approach is building on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Z Jimmy — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Z Jimmy
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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.