Award
NIH Reporter #5R01EY034497-04
Elucidating the Role of Very-long-chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids in Retinal Health and Disease
Recipient
PAUL STEVEN BERNSTEIN
Award Amount
$390,875.00
Ceiling
$390,875.00
Awarded
July 22, 2026
Identifier
5R01EY034497-04
Research project funded by the National Eye Institute to study and develop synthetic very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids for treating retinal diseases such as AMD and STGD3, including production scale-up and testing in animal models.
Description
This research study aims to provide insights into the roles of very-long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (VLC-PUFAs) as photoreceptor-specific lipids essential for retinal health. The study explores the development of synthetic VLC-PUFAs to correct abnormalities associated with age-related macular degeneration (AMD), Stargardt's disease (STGD3), and other macular disorders. The project involves scaling up organic synthetic protocols for VLC-PUFA production, examining their targeted delivery to the retina, and assessing functional improvements in animal models.