Cellular Dynamics International (CDI) announced today it has been awarded a $1.2 million contract from the National Eye Institute (NEI).

According to a release, the money will be used to create clinically compatible induced pluripotent stem cells from individuals with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD). These cells will then be used for investigational new drug enabling studies.

“CDI is delighted to be selected by the NEI to develop (cells) for treatment of AMD,” Cellular Dynamics CEO Bob Palay said in a statement. “We are excited to enable (NEI) researchers’ efforts to help patients regain their vision.”

Researchers at NEI will use the cells that CDI manufactures for preclinical studies in preparation for a clinical trial that will test these cells in patients with dry AMD, according to a release.