NPD1 Promotes Survival Signaling in the Ccl2-/-/Cx3cr1-/- Mouse AMD Model

The proposed experiments will define changes in the survival messenger neuroprotectin D1 (NPD1) and assess its bioactivity in an age-related macular degeneration (AMD) model. These “proof of principle” studies will facilitate the initiation of clinical studies in AMD patients.

The experiments in these studies mimic conditions confronted by photoreceptors and retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells in the eye during early stages of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and other retinal degenerative diseases. Our studies will define signaling pathways in RPE cells that will help us to understand the role neuroprotectin D1 (NPD1) plays in the protection and repair of photoreceptors and RPE cells. This will provide us with insights into the neuroprotective properties of NPD1, which may lead to new therapies and interventions that can be used to treat patients suffering from AMD and other retinal diseases.