In Vivo Forward Genetic Screens by CRISPR for Neurodegeneration Modifiers

This project addresses glaucoma, one of the most common causes of blindness, and brings together a physician-scientist/opthamologist and a bioengineer with expertise in the development of CRISPR and genome engineering technologies. The team will deploy CRISPR in an in vivo genome-wide screen for modifiers of optic nerve degeneration in mouse glaucoma models, taking advantage of the accessibility of the visual system in the mouse models for screening and intervention. Genes and pathways identified for glaucoma could also eventually point to pathways relevant for other neurodegenerative diseases.