An intact blood-retinal barrier (BRB) is critical for the maintenance of the health of the retina. The endothelial cells of the retinal blood vessels along with the surrounding pericytes and astrocytes form a neurovascular unit with strong barrier properties. Very little is known about the molecular and cellular mechanisms that regulate the development and maintenance of the BRB. We hypothesize that retinoic acid (RA) plays a critical role in the regulation of BRB formation as well as maintenance. We will test this hypothesis using a novel zebrafish model that we have developed, which allows the longitudinal in vivo visualization and testing of the BRB.

Public Health Relevance

An intact Blood Retinal Barrier (BRB) is crucial for the health of the retina. Loss of BRB integrity results in loss of vision in a number of ocular diseases. While VEGF inhibitors are currently in use to inhibit retinal vascular leakage we are limited in our fundamental understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms that contribute to the development and maintenance of the BRB. We will utilize a novel in vivo zebrafish model to identify these mechanisms as well as factors involved in retinal vascular regeneration.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Eye Institute (NEI)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01EY026181-02
Application #
9334214
Study Section
Diseases and Pathophysiology of the Visual System Study Section (DPVS)
Program Officer
Shen, Grace L
Project Start
2016-09-01
Project End
2021-08-31
Budget Start
2017-09-01
Budget End
2018-08-31
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2017
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Cleveland Clinic Lerner
Department
Ophthalmology
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
135781701
City
Cleveland
State
OH
Country
United States
Zip Code
44195
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