NEI Research News

A National Eye Institute-funded study has identified a type of stem cell called a neural progenitor cell, in a region of the optic nerve, which connects the eye to the brain.

National Institutes of Health Director Francis S. Collins, M.D., Ph.D., has chosen Michael F. Chiang, M.D., as director of NIH’s National Eye Institute (NEI).

The inflammatory molecule interleukin-17A (IL-17A) triggers immune cells that in turn reduce IL-17A’s pro-inflammatory activity, according to a new NEI study.

Cerebral (cortical) visual impairment (CVI) is a condition that interferes with the ability of the brain to process information from the eyes, and it has become a leading cause of visual impairment in the U.S.

Researchers seeking to unravel the mysteries of how our amazingly complex brains do what they do, often start with the eye. The retina, the light-sensing tissue at the back of the eye has long been a model for scientists to explore how the brain works.

The National Eye Institute (NEI) has established an office to accelerate progress in regenerative medicine for eye disease and vision disorders.

New NEI-supported research provides insight into the eye conditions associated with Marfan syndrome, where weakened zonule fibers cause vision problems.

The NEI has funded development of a handheld pediatric vision scanner that easily and accurately screens for amblyopia, or “lazy eye.” The device could facilitate earlier identification of children who need vision-saving treatment.

Progression along an age-related macular degeneration (AMD) severity scale over two years predicts the likelihood of developing late-stage disease five years later.

In a novel approach to gene therapy, scientists funded by the National Eye Institute (NEI) report using gold nanoparticles and light to target specific cells in mouse retina.