Caren Norden, principal investigator at the GIMM Foundation, was honored at the 68th edition of the Pfizer Awards, the most prestigious award in biomedical research in Portugal, with the prize in fundamental research. The research, focused on photoreceptor migration- the cells responsible for capturing light and enabling vision – uses zebrafish as a model to study how these cells contribute to the healthy development of the retina, with important implications for treating eye diseases in humans.

The study, led by researcher Caren Norden, centered on the coordinated migration of photoreceptors, which initially move away from the formation site and then return to create space for other dividing cells. This organized movement allows balanced retinal growth, preventing overcrowding and ensuring the proper division and formation of other neuronal cells. This phenomenon was also identified in human retinal organoids, proving that the zebrafish model is a valuable tool for understanding the cellular mechanisms of the human retina.

“Understanding photoreceptor migration in zebrafish and then observing similar phenomena in human tissue is an important step toward developing therapies that address developmental issues and diseases of the human retina,” explains Caren Norden. “Our research not only deepens our understanding of ocular development but also establishes a solid foundation for future therapeutic strategies.”

The Pfizer Award is given to research projects with high potential to transform clinical practice and address global health challenges. This recognition reinforces the impact of the GIMM Foundation and the importance of its discoveries in health and biomedicine. In addition to Caren Norden, researchers Ana Magalhães (i3S, Porto) and Filipe Pereira (CNC, Coimbra) were also recognized in this edition.