Understanding vision loss in children with Neurofibromatosis type-1 and exploring new treatments

Retinal circuit integration and degeneration in Neurofibromatosis type-1

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11033984

This study is looking at how optic glioma, which can happen in kids with Neurofibromatosis type-1, affects their eyesight by damaging important cells in the eye, and it’s exploring ways to help protect those cells and improve vision through possible treatments like cell transplants.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11033984 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how optic glioma, a condition associated with Neurofibromatosis type-1 (NF1), affects retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and leads to vision loss in young children. The study aims to evaluate the damage to RGC axons and explore potential therapies, including cell transplantation, to protect these cells and restore vision. By assessing the impact of RGC loss and the effects of transplanted cells on retinal circuitry, the research seeks to develop effective strategies for preventing vision impairment in affected children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis type-1 who are at risk of vision loss due to optic glioma.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of Neurofibromatosis type-1 or those who do not have optic glioma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect vision in children with Neurofibromatosis type-1.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in cell transplantation therapies for optic nerve injuries, but this specific approach in the context of NF1 is still being explored.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.
Conditions Animal Disease Modelsaxon injury
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.