Understanding vision loss in older adults with age-related macular degeneration

Functionally Validated Structural Endpoints for Early AMD

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10588137

This study is looking at how changes in the eye can affect how well older adults adjust to darkness, which is important for good vision, and it aims to find early signs that could help identify those at risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10588137 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of vision impairment in older adults. It focuses on how structural changes in the eye affect the ability to adapt to darkness, which is crucial for maintaining vision. By examining the relationship between these structural changes and visual function, the study aims to identify early biomarkers for AMD. Patients will be assessed for their dark adaptation capabilities, which may indicate their risk for developing AMD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for or have early-stage age-related macular degeneration.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced age-related macular degeneration or those with other unrelated eye conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and better management of age-related macular degeneration, potentially preserving vision in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying functional biomarkers for AMD, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in understanding the disease.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, 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.