Title: Developing an in invitro model of ARMD using RPE cells treated with pesticides. Evaluation of the cytoprotective potential of compound of interest in this model.

Scope:

•  ARMD is triggered by damage and death of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) at the base of the retina. Free radicals and pollutants can kill RPE cells. However, no one knows whether RPE are damaged by exposure to pesticides.  This project will investigate short and long term effects of very low doses of pesticides on a human RPE cell line.

Duration: One year

Expected benefits : This project will help determine whether pesticides can trigger RPE damage which in leads to ARMD. Since pesticides are commonly found in the ground water and soil in India , this project will also contribute to public health.