Understanding the CRB1 gene's role in inherited retinal degeneration
Official title: Molecular and cellular requirements for Crb1 gene function in the onset and therapeutic rescue of an inherited retinal degeneration
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11012876 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the CRB1 gene can lead to vision loss, and it's for people with inherited retinal degeneration; researchers are using mice to understand how different versions of this gene work in the eye, hoping to find ways to fix the problem and improve vision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $511,878 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY035637-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012876 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with inherited retinal degeneration linked to CRB1 gene mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with retinal degeneration caused by mutations in genes other than CRB1 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how mutations in the CRB1 gene lead to inherited retinal degeneration, a condition that can cause blindness. By studying the function of different CRB1 gene isoforms in both developing and mature retinas, the research aims to identify the specific roles these isoforms play in retinal health. Using a mouse model that mimics human CRB1-related diseases, the researchers will explore how the absence of certain CRB1 isoforms affects retinal structure and function. The ultimate goal is to develop targeted gene replacement therapies that could halt or reverse degeneration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective therapies that prevent or treat vision loss in patients with CRB1-related retinal degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in gene therapy approaches for other inherited retinal diseases, suggesting potential success for this novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kay, Jeremy N — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Kay, Jeremy N
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.