Understanding the causes of inherited retinal degeneration using advanced genetic techniques

Unraveling the molecular pathology of retinal degeneration through single cell genomics

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11111449

This study is looking into the genetic causes of inherited retinal degeneration, a condition that can lead to blindness, by mapping out important parts of our DNA in eye cells to find mutations that might be causing the problem, which could help develop new treatments in the future.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11111449 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind inherited retinal degeneration (IRD), a leading cause of blindness. By creating detailed maps of specific regulatory elements in human retinal cells, the team will identify mutations that contribute to IRD, particularly those in non-coding regions of DNA. The study employs advanced genomic techniques and utilizes both cellular and animal models to explore how these mutations affect retinal function. This work is crucial for understanding the genetic basis of IRD and could lead to new therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with inherited retinal degeneration, particularly those with unresolved genetic causes.

Not a fit: Patients with retinal degeneration caused by known coding mutations may not benefit directly from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment options for patients with inherited retinal degeneration.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in identifying genetic causes of other inherited conditions using similar genomic mapping techniques, suggesting a promising avenue for this study.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, 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.