NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Comparing two methods of glaucoma drainage device placement

Official title: Glaucoma Drainage Device and Endothelial Cell Density Loss Compare (DECLARE) Trial

Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11074588 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how the placement of glaucoma drainage devices affects eye health, specifically focusing on which method helps keep your eye pressure stable while causing less harm to the cells in your cornea, and it's for people with glaucoma who might need this type of surgery.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2023
Project endMarch 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$1,038,103
NIH project number5UG1EY033703-03
Project IDNIH-11074588 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with medically uncontrolled glaucoma who are considering glaucoma drainage device surgery.

Less likely to help

Patients with well-controlled glaucoma or those who are not candidates for surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of two different placements of glaucoma drainage devices (GDD) on corneal endothelial cell loss and other surgical outcomes. Patients will be randomly assigned to receive either a tube placed in the anterior chamber or in the ciliary sulcus. The study aims to determine which placement method results in better control of intraocular pressure and minimizes damage to the corneal cells. By analyzing data from 240 participants across multiple centers, the research seeks to provide clearer guidance on the optimal surgical technique for managing glaucoma.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved surgical techniques that preserve corneal health and enhance the quality of life for glaucoma patients.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown mixed results regarding the outcomes of different GDD placements, indicating that this research could provide valuable new insights.

Where this research is happening

  • University of California, San Francisco
    San Francisco, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Han, Ying — University of California, San Francisco
  • Study coordinator: Han, Ying

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

  • IOP and CSF Pressure in Glaucoma Risk

    This grant studies how eye pressure and cerebrospinal fluid pressure together influence glaucoma risk and vision loss.

    NIH research University of Alabama at Birmingham · Birmingham, United States · NIH-11644421

  • Comparing tube positions in glaucoma implants to protect corneal cells

    This trial compares two tube placements for glaucoma drainage implants to see which better protects corneal cells and controls eye pressure in people with uncontrolled glaucoma.

    NIH research University of California, San Francisco · San Francisco, United States · NIH-11520347

  • Automated topographic test for glaucoma detection and progression

    A new automated method uses topographic structure-function mapping to help diagnose glaucoma earlier and track its progression in patients.

    NIH research Columbia University Health Sciences · New York, United States · NIH-11516608

  • Using AI on eye scans and genes to predict glaucoma risk

    This project uses artificial intelligence on eye scans, vision tests, and genetic information to find people most likely to develop or have worsening glaucoma.

    NIH research University of Miami School of Medicine · Coral Gables, United States · NIH-11469603

  • AI-based glaucoma screening in community health centers

    A new, easy-to-use AI screening approach will be tested in federally funded health centers to help identify people at risk for glaucoma, especially in communities with higher risk.

    NIH research University of Alabama at Birmingham · Birmingham, United States · NIH-11454104

  • Understanding how glaucoma genes control eye cell function

    A long-term research project will study how genetic factors affect eye cells in adults with glaucoma to uncover new ideas for protecting vision.

    NIH research Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · Boston, United States · NIH-11450761

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.