Developing new lenses for cataract surgery that resist cell growth
Official title: Improving Outcomes in Cataract Surgery: Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) Resistant to Cell Growth
Funded at Texas Engineering Experiment Station · NIH-10783729 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new type of silicone lens for cataract surgery that aims to prevent common complications, like cloudy vision after surgery, so patients can have a better experience and possibly avoid extra surgeries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas Engineering Experiment Station NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $219,610 |
| NIH project number | 5R21EY034598-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10783729 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals scheduled for cataract surgery, particularly those from underrepresented or medically underserved populations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have already undergone cataract surgery and do not require lens replacement may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving cataract surgery outcomes by creating intraocular lenses (IOLs) that resist the growth of lens epithelial cells, which can lead to complications after surgery. The study aims to develop a new type of silicone lens that minimizes the risk of posterior capsule opacification (PCO), a common issue affecting around 40% of patients. By integrating innovative surface-modifying additives into the lens design, the researchers hope to enhance the performance of IOLs while maintaining their mechanical properties. This could potentially reduce the need for additional surgeries to correct complications, improving overall patient experiences.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer cataract surgeries with fewer complications and reduced need for follow-up procedures.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing innovative IOL materials, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in cataract surgery outcomes.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas Engineering Experiment Station
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grunlan, Melissa — Texas Engineering Experiment Station
- Study coordinator: Grunlan, Melissa
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
How the aging lens affects vision and what we can do about it
This grant studies how aging changes lens water and ion balance to cause cataracts and presbyopia, with the goal of better preserving vision for aging adults.
-
Glutaredoxin and aging: how it affects cataracts and new treatment ideas
A research project explores how aging affects the lens of the eye and tests new ways to prevent or treat cataracts by studying antioxidant repair and inflammation.
-
Cataracts and Work Exposures in Denmark
A large Danish study will look at whether job-related exposures, both chemical and non-chemical, are linked to developing cataracts.
-
Tele-mentoring with an ultra-portable surgical microscope to treat cataracts in underserved communities
A portable medical microscope with remote mentoring helps doctors in underserved areas perform cataract surgery more safely and effectively for people who need it.
-
Cataract Surgery and its Possible Impact on Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias
This project explores whether fixing vision through cataract surgery could influence the progression and onset of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.
-
Role of S100 Proteins in the Eye Lens and Cataract
A study at Duke University will explore how S100 family proteins affect lens clarity and shape to understand why cataracts develop.
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.