Center Core Grant for Vision Research

Overall Component Abstract NEI-supported investigators from Duke University request continuing support for a Center Core Grant for Vision Research. Research areas covered by this group range from basic mechanisms of cellular function to functional organization of neuronal circuits, with particular interest in identifying innovative potential therapies to cure common eye disorders. For the past 35 years, we have used the NEI Core Grant to develop and update our shared resource modules, thus enhancing the capabilities of individual NEI-supported investigators to conduct vision research. The Core Grant effectively provides equipment and services that are not readily supported by individual research grants, as well as stimulating a collegial atmosphere conducive to sharing current techniques and ideas. Both are critical to success of individual investigators and members of their laboratories. Furthermore, the infrastructure created with support from this grant aids the recruitment of new investigators and facilitates the participation of clinical ophthalmologists in vision research, including the development of clinician scientists. Altogether, this supports and facilitates the translation of the discoveries from basic research into new diagnostic and therapeutic applications directly related to human eye diseases. We request support for four resource modules: Morphology/Image Processing, Mass Spectrometry/Molecular Biology, Animal Models and Flow Cytometry. Support of these shared resources is vital to the creation of synergy that will give impetus to our vision research group in reaching a level of success that is greater than the sum of the individual investigator's expected achievements.