Developing a new model to study optic nerve damage in glaucoma
Official title: Optic-nerve-head (ONH) Chips for Glaucomatous Neurodegeneration
Funded at University of North Texas · NIH-10439107 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how high pressure in the eye affects the optic nerve and can lead to vision loss in people with glaucoma, with the goal of finding better ways to treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Texas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Denton, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $463,167 |
| NIH project number | 1R15EY033967-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10439107 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma or those at risk of developing the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of vision impairment unrelated to glaucoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how elevated intraocular pressure affects the optic nerve head and contributes to glaucoma-related vision loss. By creating a more accurate model that mimics the natural environment of the optic nerve, the study aims to better understand the mechanical and biological responses of astrocytes to pressure changes. This approach could lead to improved insights into the mechanisms of retinal ganglion cell damage and potential new therapeutic strategies. Patients may benefit from advancements in glaucoma treatment based on these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for glaucoma, potentially preserving vision for many patients.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been studies on glaucoma therapies, this approach using a novel ONH model is relatively untested and could provide new insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Texas
Denton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Yong — University of North Texas
- Study coordinator: Yang, Yong
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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.