Understanding visual learning and plasticity in macular degeneration
Official title: Characterization of Multiple Factors in Training and Plasticity in Central Vision Loss: Macular Degeneration
Run by University of Alabama at Birmingham · NCT05454124 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if training can help people with macular degeneration improve their everyday vision by understanding how their brains adapt to changes in sight.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 89 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Alabama at Birmingham Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Birmingham, Alabama) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 1, 2022 |
| Main results expected | November 2026 |
| Study ends | November 2026 |
| Registry record updated | February 9, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05454124 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-89 with severely impaired vision (20/100 or worse) due to macular degeneration.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with conditions such as claustrophobia, certain metal implants, or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates how perceptual learning can improve daily visual tasks for individuals with central vision loss due to macular degeneration. By simulating central vision loss in normally seeing individuals, researchers aim to understand how changes in visual experience affect brain activity and connectivity. The study employs eye-trackers and gaze-contingent displays to analyze the development of peripheral looking patterns. The ultimate goal is to inform new therapies that enhance visual performance in patients suffering from low vision.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that significantly improve the quality of life for individuals with macular degeneration.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using perceptual learning approaches for visual rehabilitation, indicating potential success for this study.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Aged 18-89 * Severely impaired vision in both eyes (20/100 or worse) * diagnosis of Macular Degeneration by an Ophthalmologist * Light sensitivity in the macular retina that is at least 10 dB units worse than in peripheral regions, as demonstrated by a scanning laser ophthalmoscope (MAIA) * Medical record review indicating this level of disease severity has been present for at least 2 years * Reside within 50 miles of study site Exclusion Criteria: * Pacemaker or any ferromagnetic metal implanted in their body * Metal of any type implanted in their head (limited dental work is acceptable) * Claustrophobia * Being hearing-impaired * Weight over 300 pounds * Maximum body girth over 60 inches * Previous serious head injury * Presence of hallucinations or delusions * Excessive old, or colorful tattoos, especially near the head * Pregnancy * Braces/permanent retainer
Where it's running
-
UAB
Birmingham, Alabama, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Rachel A Chua, MS
- Email: r2chel@uab.edu
- Phone: 205-410-4041
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Multimodal-feedback vision rehabilitation for people with central vision loss
This trial will test whether five weekly sessions of binocular multimodal feedback training can improve eye movement control in people with bilateral central vision loss from macular degeneration.
-
Noninvasive imaging biomarkers to see if ophthalmic artery narrowing relates to geographic atrophy in age-related macular degeneration
This study tests whether narrowed ophthalmic artery vessels are linked to the development or worsening of geographic atrophy in people with dry age-related macular degeneration.
-
Tiespectus (MK-8748) versus aflibercept to treat neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration
The study will see if tiespectus (MK-8748) works as well as aflibercept for people with newly diagnosed neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration.
-
Comparing tiespectus (MK-8748) with aflibercept for wet age-related macular degeneration
This study will test whether tiespectus (MK-8748) works as well as aflibercept for people with newly diagnosed neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration.
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See If Faricimab Helps Neovascular Age-related Macular Degeneration
This study tests whether Faricimab injections every month for 4 months can help adults aged 50 and older with active neovascular AMD in at least one eye.
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Natural history of inherited retinal diseases
This project will test whether color vision problems relate to retinal structure and visual function in people with inherited retinal dystrophies and in people without retinal disease.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.