Understanding the role of elastin in age-related vision loss
Elastase and Elastin Peptide Activity in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
This study is looking at how changes in a protein called elastin might affect vision in people with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), using a mouse model to understand how smoke exposure can harm the eyes, with the hope of finding new ways to help prevent or treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10792878 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how changes in elastin, a protein important for eye structure, contribute to age-related macular degeneration (AMD). By studying a mouse model that mimics ocular damage from smoke exposure, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind elastin degradation and its effects on vision. The study focuses on the relationship between elastin peptides and immune responses, which may lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating AMD. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the disease's progression and potential interventions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults at risk for or diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of vision loss unrelated to age-related macular degeneration may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent vision loss in patients with age-related macular degeneration.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of elastin in ocular diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Charleston, United States
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rohrer, Baerbel — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Rohrer, Baerbel
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.