# Photoreceptor Mitochondria and Ca2+ Dynamics

> **NIH NIH R01** · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · 2021 · $379,011

## Abstract

Photoreceptors, the neurons that initiate vision, must adapt to survive in a hostile
cellular environment. In the retina they are exposed to damaging light radiation,
experience 100-fold fluctuations in intracellular Ca2+, are located near blood
vessels with high levels of O2, and use ATP faster than most other types of cells
in the body. To ensure optimal function and survival, photoreceptors must have a
robust system for maintaining healthy mitochondria. This would involve a regulated
balance between mitochondrial clearance, biogenesis, fusion and fission. Here
we propose a comprehensive analysis of the circadian regulation of these
processes and how they relate to changes in mitochondrial structure and metabolic
function. We exploit advantages of both the mouse and the zebrafish models and
our expertise studying metabolism and photoreceptor biology. In Aim 1 we will
define daily and circadian changes in photoreceptor mitochondria function and
structure. In Aim 2 we evaluate mitochondrial clearance and biogenesis and in
Aim 3 we examine cellular triggers underlying mitochondrial mobility. In summary,
we are asking several questions that are all directed toward understanding
mitochondria homeostasis. We will examine mitochondrial biogenesis, clearance,
morphology, number, factors influencing motility and metabolism at different times
of day both in light and dark. This will provide a broad and impactful overview of
how these processes are coordinated to optimize photoreceptor health and
function.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10077552
- **Project number:** 5R01EY026020-06
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
- **Principal Investigator:** Susan E Brockerhoff
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $379,011
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2016-01-01 → 2024-12-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10077552

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10077552, Photoreceptor Mitochondria and Ca2+ Dynamics (5R01EY026020-06). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10077552. Licensed CC0.

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