Understanding how vitamin A influences eye development
Retinoic acid target genes and transcriptional mechanisms during eye development
This study looks at how a vitamin A byproduct called retinoic acid helps shape the eye during early development, aiming to understand its effects on important genes, which could help us learn more about eye conditions like microphthalmia that affect how the eyes grow.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10888155 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of retinoic acid, a metabolite of vitamin A, in the development of the eye. It focuses on how retinoic acid is synthesized and its effects on gene expression during critical stages of eye formation in embryos. By studying the mechanisms through which retinoic acid activates or represses specific genes, the research aims to identify key genes involved in eye development and the consequences of their dysregulation. This could provide insights into conditions like microphthalmia, where eye development is impaired.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with genetic conditions affecting eye development, such as microphthalmia.
Not a fit: Patients with eye conditions unrelated to developmental processes or those who have already completed their eye development may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for eye developmental disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the genetic mechanisms of eye development can lead to significant advancements in treating related disorders.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Duester, Gregg L — Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute
- Study coordinator: Duester, Gregg L
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.