Understanding the mechanisms behind abnormal blood vessel connections in a type of age-related vision loss

Elucidating the developmental and molecular mechanism of chorioretinal anastomoses in a model of type 3 neovascular age-related macular degeneration

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10912647

This study is looking at how unusual blood vessel connections in the eye, linked to a specific type of age-related vision loss, form and affect sight, with the hope of finding better treatments for people dealing with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10912647 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the underlying mechanisms of chorioretinal anastomoses (CRA), which are abnormal connections between blood vessels in the retina and choroid, associated with type 3 neovascular age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Using a mouse model with a specific genetic mutation, researchers aim to understand how these connections form and contribute to vision loss. The study focuses on the role of vascular specification in the development of CRA and explores potential therapeutic approaches to normalize these connections. By examining the molecular pathways involved, the research seeks to provide insights that could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from this condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with type 3 neovascular age-related macular degeneration.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of age-related macular degeneration or those without any retinal vascular abnormalities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve vision and reduce the risk of blindness in patients with type 3 neovascular AMD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in understanding vascular mechanisms in other conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights, although the specific focus on CRA in type 3 AMD is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.