Changes in the optic nerve head may lead to scarring in glaucoma
Official title: Optic nerve head metabolic change promotes fibrosis
Funded at University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr · NIH-10950983 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the optic nerve head can lead to scarring in people with glaucoma, and it aims to find ways to protect the important cells in the eye so they can stay healthy and work better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Worth, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $191,095 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY036552-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10950983 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma who are experiencing changes in their optic nerve head.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of glaucoma or those without any optic nerve head changes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how metabolic changes in the optic nerve head contribute to fibrosis, particularly in patients with glaucoma. It focuses on understanding the relationship between increased intraocular pressure and the resulting fibrotic response that can damage retinal ganglion cells. By exploring the metabolic pathways involved, the research aims to identify potential interventions that could prevent or reverse harmful fibrosis. The ultimate goal is to enhance the survival and function of retinal cells affected by glaucoma.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect vision by preventing scarring in the optic nerve head of glaucoma patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of linking metabolism and fibrosis in the optic nerve head is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding fibrotic responses in other tissues.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
Fort Worth, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Inman, Denise M — University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Inman, Denise M
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Interface between immune cells and scarring in the eye
This grant looks at how immune cells influence scar formation in the cornea after injury and how this affects vision.
-
How often to treat schistosomiasis to protect the liver
A randomized trial will test different frequencies ofPraziquantel treatment to prevent liver damage in people aged 15–40 with schistosomiasis in Uganda.
-
Metabolic changes in cells that repair blood vessels in the eye lens to prevent scarring
A drug or approach that changes how certain cells that repair blood vessels in the eye work, to prevent scarring behind the retina in age-related macular degeneration patients treated with anti-VEGF therapy.
-
Myocardial fibrosis and fat in ART-treated women with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa
This project studies heart tissue changes in women with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa who are on antiretroviral therapy, to understand why they’re at higher risk for heart problems as they age.
-
Myocardial fibrosis and fat in ART-treated women with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa
This grant studies heart tissue changes in women living with HIV in sub-Saharan Africa to understand why heart failure risk is higher in this group.
-
Molecular clues to progressive lung scarring
Researchers are studying how lung tissue becomes progressively scarred, focusing on cell signals and receptors that may drive fibrosis in people with lung disease.
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.