Using metabolomics to understand age-related macular degeneration
Official title: Metabolomics a Novel Tool for Investigating the Pathogenesis of Age-related Macular Degeneration
Funded at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · NIH-10795968 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny molecules in your body might help us understand age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a common cause of vision loss in older folks, by analyzing blood and urine samples to find changes that could predict how the disease progresses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2020 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $419,891 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY030088-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10795968 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for or diagnosed with age-related macular degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of vision impairment unrelated to age-related macular degeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of metabolomics, which is the study of small molecules in the body, in understanding age-related macular degeneration (AMD), a leading cause of blindness in older adults. By analyzing blood and urine samples from patients, the study aims to identify specific metabolic changes associated with different stages of AMD. This approach could help in discovering biomarkers that predict the progression of the disease and improve risk assessment. The research involves recruiting patients for comprehensive ophthalmological exams and sample collection to gather data on their metabolic profiles.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better risk prediction and potential treatments for age-related macular degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success in using metabolomics to identify biomarkers in other complex conditions, suggesting potential for similar breakthroughs in AMD.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Husain, Deeba — Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
- Study coordinator: Husain, Deeba
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Metabolomics approach to uncover how age-related macular degeneration develops
A patient-facing look at how we study small molecules in blood and eye tissue to understand why people develop AMD and how it progresses.
-
Measuring small molecules to better understand age-related macular degeneration
This project will measure specific small molecules in people with age-related macular degeneration to find signals that predict progression.
-
AI-powered tool to predict 2-year risk of late AMD
A new AI software helps people at risk of age-related macular degeneration understand their 2-year risk and what steps could protect their vision.
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Active cycling program to support vision and daily living in Veterans with AMD
A 6-month online group spin cycling program is tested to help Veterans with age-related macular degeneration maintain vision and improve daily functioning.
-
Transplanting stem-cell–derived retinal cells to treat dry AMD
A medical team is testing a stem cell therapy to replace damaged retinal cells in adults with dry age-related macular degeneration.
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RPESC-derived RPE Transplant for Dry AMD in adults
A new cell-based therapy derived from RPESCs is being tested to help adults with dry age-related macular degeneration regain vision.
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.