RETINA-EM

Ultrastructural Analysis of Retinal Degeneration Mechanisms by Expert Transmission Electron Microscopy

01.04.2027 bis 30.09.2028

Inherited retinal degenerations cause a gradual loss of photoreceptors due to stress pathways, such as problems with protein balance and mitochondrial function. This project will use transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to study the detailed mechanisms behind retinal degeneration and ways to protect nerve cells. Previous research showed that blocking valosin-containing protein (VCP) helps keep photoreceptors healthy and supports mitochondrial structure. This study will look at the effects of VCP inhibition alone and together with urolithin A in animal models of inherited retinal degeneration. The research will examine how these treatments affect the organization of photoreceptor outer segments, rhodopsin movement, mitochondrial structure, swelling of the endoplasmic reticulum, formation of autophagic vacuoles, and preservation of synaptic ribbons. The goal is to find structural changes that help protect the retina regardless of the specific mutation and to provide evidence for neuroprotective strategies that could work for many types of retinal degeneration.