University of Utah Core Vision Research Grant

Project Summary The research areas supported by the VRC span the analysis and treatments of retinal degenerations, glaucoma and other disorders, as well as a range of cutting-edge basic science initiatives. We have implemented four resource modules that serve 15 investigators holding 21 NEI R01 awards. The Administrative Module provides leadership and organizational structure for the Moran VRC. This will facilitate effective resource operating policies and identify barriers to research progress. The Imaging Module provides novel, powerful high-speed automated TEM for VRC investigators and confocal resources and high-speed optical scanning microscopy for high-throughput tissue/immunocytochemical analysis. New to this grant period, we now provide robust imaging and data analysis support for various NEI- funded translational and clinical research projects. The Physiology Module encompasses a powerful set of tools that many faculty members use for animal model validation and disease profiling. The module encompasses electroretinography, behavioral assessment, mechanical stimulation, ocular imaging (OCT, Micron), in vivo / in vitro 2-photon imaging, outflow measurements and tonometry. The Computational Module is a newly introduced module focusing on the growing role of advanced computation in NEI-funded research. The main functions of the Module will be 1) enriching the computational aspect of research in the department through consultations with researchers; 2) artificial intelligence (AI) methods education and training; 3) developing departmental policies on the use of computational resources and data sharing, 4) developing computational models in collaboration with department PIs; 5) facilitating robust statistical support for vision research projects The Biochemistry & Cell Biology Module represents immense technical expertise in protein quantitation and molecular characterization. The module provides a number of analytical methodologies including ultracentrifugation, IR imaging and quantitation of immunoblots, HPLC-MS and GC-MS of small molecules (retinoids, carotenoids), and protein/ligand interaction quantitation with surface plasmon resonance (SPR).