The National Eye Institute (NEI), under the Vision Research program (CFDA 93.867), awarded a $526,841 Project Grant to Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) to investigate the role of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) signaling in glaucomatous neurodegeneration. The primary objectives are to:
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Discern how disrupted cGMP signaling affects astrocyte-vascular networks, leading to retinal ganglion cell (RGC) metabolic stress and axon degeneration in glaucoma.
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Determine if increasing cGMP signaling specifically in astrocytes or RGCs can slow disease progression.
The 5-year research project, running from February 1, 2025 to January 31, 2030, will leverage VUMC's expertise in ophthalmology and neuroscience to elucidate novel cellular mechanisms underlying glaucoma pathogenesis. The findings aim to identify potential therapeutic targets to preserve vision by protecting RGCs and mitigating metabolic stresses.
Generated 3/4/25, 5:41 AM