We’re proud to introduce the first of four research projects funded by the GENeHOPE Fund : the ENHANCE-MCOR project. This research tackles microcoria (MCOR), a rare genetic disorder marked by abnormally small pupils, light sensitivity, and often progression to severe glaucoma.
The cause? Disruptions in the “dark matter” of our DNA, the non-coding regions that regulate gene activity. Since current mouse models cannot reproduce MCOR, researchers are turning to an unexpected ally: the frog Xenopus tropicalis. Its eye develops much like ours, making it a powerful model to uncover how these DNA disruptions trigger MCOR and glaucoma.
By doing so, the project could not only shed light on this rare blinding disease, but also pave the way for new treatments benefiting children and adults with glaucoma worldwide.
Behind this groundbreaking research are teams led by Prof. Elfride De Baere (Ghent University) and Dr. Jean-Michel Rozet (Institut Imagine).
Watch Prof. De Baere explain the project in the full video :
We’re incredibly proud to break barriers and foster collaboration across borders, bringing together scientists from different countries to work on such promising genetic research.
All to bring hope to families.
Stay tuned for more spotlights on the other projects we’re funding this year!
