Factors in Learning And Plasticity: Macular Degeneration

Description

A greater understanding of plasticity after central vision loss can inform new therapies for treating low vision and has the potential to benefit millions of individuals suffering from low vision. The treatment of low vision is particularly relevant to the mission of the NEI to support research on visual disorders, mechanisms of visual function, and preservation of sight. The comparison of different training and outcome factors is in line with the NIMH RDOC framework and studies in an aging population are consistent with the mission of the NIA.

Conditions

Central Visual Impairment, Macular Degeneration

Study Overview

Study Details

Study overview

A greater understanding of plasticity after central vision loss can inform new therapies for treating low vision and has the potential to benefit millions of individuals suffering from low vision. The treatment of low vision is particularly relevant to the mission of the NEI to support research on visual disorders, mechanisms of visual function, and preservation of sight. The comparison of different training and outcome factors is in line with the NIMH RDOC framework and studies in an aging population are consistent with the mission of the NIA.

Characterization of Multiple Factors in Training and Plasticity in Central Vision Loss: Macular Degeneration

Factors in Learning And Plasticity: Macular Degeneration

Condition
Central Visual Impairment
Intervention / Treatment

-

Contacts and Locations

Birmingham

UAB, Birmingham, Alabama, United States, 35294

Participation Criteria

Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.

For general information about clinical research, read Learn About Studies.

Eligibility Criteria

  • * Aged 18-89
  • * Severely impaired vision in both eyes (20/100 or worse)
  • * diagnosis of Macular Degeneration by an Ophthalmologist
  • * Light sensitivity in the macular retina that is at least 10 dB units worse than in peripheral regions, as demonstrated by a scanning laser ophthalmoscope (MAIA)
  • * Medical record review indicating this level of disease severity has been present for at least 2 years
  • * Reside within 50 miles of study site
  • * Pacemaker or any ferromagnetic metal implanted in their body
  • * Metal of any type implanted in their head (limited dental work is acceptable)
  • * Claustrophobia
  • * Being hearing-impaired
  • * Weight over 300 pounds
  • * Maximum body girth over 60 inches
  • * Previous serious head injury
  • * Presence of hallucinations or delusions
  • * Excessive old, or colorful tattoos, especially near the head
  • * Pregnancy
  • * Braces/permanent retainer

Ages Eligible for Study

18 Years to 89 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study

ALL

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

No

Collaborators and Investigators

University of Alabama at Birmingham,

Study Record Dates

2025-11