NEI Research Will Noninvasively Image Cells in Greater Detail

Artist's rendering of neural activity in the retina. Light that enters the eye
activates rod and cone photoreceptors, which in turn activate retinal ganglion cells.
Signals travel to the brain via retinal ganglion cell axons.
Photo credit: National Eye Institute.

"Five bold projects will develop new technology to noninvasively image cells of the eye in unprecedented detail," according to NEI. "The National Eye Institute (NEI) announced the awards as part of its Audacious Goals Initiative. NEI has committed $3.8 million to the projects in 2015 and up to $17.9 million over the next five years, pending the availability of funds. NEI is part of the National Institutes of Health. The NEI Audacious Goals Initiative is a coordinated effort to spur new therapies for blinding diseases. The central audacious goal is to restore vision by regenerating neurons and neural connections in the eye and visual system. Special emphasis is devoted to cells of the retina, including the light-sensitive rod and cone photoreceptors, and the retinal ganglion cells, which connect photoreceptors to the brain via the optic nerve." Read more.