Creating a 3D model to study fluid flow in the eye's drainage system.
Official title: TM/SC-interface-on-a-chip for mechanistic studies of outflow regulation.
Funded at Upstate Medical University · NIH-11080368 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a special 3D model of parts of the eye that help control fluid drainage, so researchers can learn more about how these areas work and how they might be linked to conditions like glaucoma, ultimately aiming to find better treatments for people dealing with eye pressure problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Upstate Medical University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $195,313 |
| NIH project number | 5R21EY036189-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080368 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for glaucoma or those experiencing elevated intraocular pressure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to aqueous humor outflow or those who do not have elevated intraocular pressure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel 3D model that mimics the trabecular meshwork and Schlemm's canal interface, which are crucial for regulating fluid drainage in the eye. By creating this advanced model, researchers aim to better understand how different regions of the outflow tract contribute to fluid dynamics and intraocular pressure. The approach involves manipulating the model to observe real-time changes in fluid flow and tissue behavior, which could lead to insights into conditions like glaucoma. Patients may benefit from improved understanding and potential new treatments for eye pressure-related issues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better treatments for glaucoma and other conditions related to eye pressure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using 3D models for studying biological systems, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Upstate Medical University
Syracuse, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Herberg, Samuel — Upstate Medical University
- Study coordinator: Herberg, Samuel
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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.