Better 3D imaging and lab tests of the eye's drainage area for glaucoma
Novel ocular imaging and molecular analysis of anterior eye segment for glaucoma
Using advanced 3D scans and molecular lab tests to get a clearer picture of the eye’s drainage structures to help people with glaucoma or high eye pressure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11306055 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, the team will use high-resolution three-dimensional imaging to map the front drainage structures of the eye, including Schlemm's canal and the trabecular meshwork. They will pair those images with molecular analyses of tissues or eye fluid to learn which signals (for example Angiopoietin/Tie2) keep these channels healthy. Much of the work combines lab-based molecular studies with cutting-edge scans to explain why fluid drainage becomes blocked and intraocular pressure rises. This combined approach aims to reveal new signs for earlier diagnosis or new targets for treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with glaucoma or consistently elevated intraocular pressure, including those with early-onset or developmental forms who are willing to undergo imaging or sample-based testing.
Not a fit: Patients whose vision loss is due mainly to non–pressure-related optic nerve disease, or who cannot travel to the study site, may not directly benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could enable earlier detection of drainage problems and lead to new treatments that better lower eye pressure and prevent vision loss.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have linked Angiopoietin/Tie2 signaling to Schlemm's canal health and improved imaging has advanced understanding, but combining whole-circle 3D imaging with molecular analysis in this way is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kume, Tsutomu — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Kume, Tsutomu
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.