Deciphering the consequences of mast cell mediated extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling in age-related macular degeneration (AMD)

01/08/2023 to 31/07/2026

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a peculiarly human disease. Therefore, understanding the disease can only be achieved by studying physiologically relevant human tissue models. Commonly scientists use animal models, or study retinal cell types in isolation, neither of which represent what is really happening in a human eye. The resilience and longevity of a healthy human retina relies on the complex interactions between all the different cell types and their underlying extracellular matrix (ECM). Here, we will combine leading bioengineering expertise (Prof. Loskill) and AMD/protein biochemistry (Prof. Clark) to create a novel, multi-cellular retinal model that includes the natural underlying ECM, termed Bruch’s membrane (BrM), in a Retina-on-Chip system.