A joint research project is to be undertaken by Soviet and American scientists in the field of vision as a cooperative exchange effort. The common goal is to elucidate the molecular basis of visual signaling. The experimental objectives are to identify, isolate and characterize the molecular components that detect light and achieve neural signaling and rod and cone photoreceptor cells and to clone the genes that encode these protein components. The plan is to adapt the recent techniques of micro-protein chemistry, molecular cloning, gene expression, and patch-clamp physiological studies to provide new experimental tools and approaches for studying photoreceptor cells. Working with the most current techniques of molecular biology, these scientists seek to establish the mechanisms underlying the triggering of visual information. This joint venture draws on the strengths of research in the USSR and US in vision. The Soviet scientists provide particular expertise in protein chemistry and electrophysiological techniques. The American scientists provide expertise in molecular cloning techniques and biochemical purification. Monies awarded for this project provide a stipend for living expenses to Soviet scientists during their research visit to the University of Chicago and United States; the airfare for travel to the Soviet Union is covered for the American investigators visiting the Soviet Union. By establishing a formal mechanism for joint research they hope to facilitate the exchange of ideas, support exchange of ideas, support exchange of materials, and accelerate their goal of defining the basis of visual triggering.
