Molecular mechanisms of photoreceptor protection in rat models of degenerative retinal disease [ 2002 - 2004 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Jonathan Stone (Principal investigator) ,  A/Pr Krisztina Valter-Kocsi

Brief description The photoreceptor cells of the eye (rods and cones) are the cornerstones of vision. Without them the complex and rich sense of vision fades into blindness. In 1 person in 4-5,000 - about 5,000 Australians and 1-2 million people world-wide - these cells degenerate spontaneously. The condition which results is known as retinitis pigmentosa (RP); it causes progesses blindness, most often affecting young adults. Despite recent advances in research, there is still no effective cure. The present work will explore the environmental factors which determine whether photoreceptors last the lifetime of the individual, or die prematurely. The factors which cause their premature death include genetic mutations but also include environmental factors, including the oxygen status of the retina, the brightness of light experienced and the retina's response to stress. We will investigate the mechanisms by which the retina protects photoreceptors in the face of stress, and how it prepares itself for future insults. Several of these mechanisms have already been identified. The present work will investigate their function at the molecular level, to gain the understanding need to influence their operation. Understanding the response of photoreceptors to these environmental stresses will make it possible to slow the degeneration by manipulating the retinal environment.

Funding Amount $AUD 277,480.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant