Epigenetic aging and retinal nerve protection in glaucoma (in aging mice)
Official title: In vivo epigenetic reprogramming of retinal ganglion cells in aging mice with glaucoma
Funded at Schepens Eye Research Institute · NIH-11322078 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A mouse study looks at how aging changes the retina’s nerve cells in glaucoma and tests new ideas to protect or rejuvenate these cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Schepens Eye Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $639,352 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY036910-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11322078 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with glaucoma or at-risk patients whose age-related changes may influence disease progression, though this study is in mice.
✕Less likely to help
Direct benefit to patients is not guaranteed during early animal research; results would need further development and testing in humans.
What this research studies
This project uses aging mice to study why retinal ganglion cells become vulnerable in glaucoma and how aging-related changes in chromatin might drive damage. It focuses on identifying therapies that directly support RGC survival and resilience under stress from raised eye pressure. The work combines aging biology with glaucoma models to uncover targets that could slow or prevent vision loss. By exploring epigenetic mechanisms, the study aims to reveal strategies that could translate into better retinal protection in patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could uncover new ways to shield retinal cells from glaucoma-related damage and guide future therapies to preserve sight in aging patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests aging and epigenetic changes influence retinal susceptibility, supporting potential for protective strategies.
Where this research is happening
-
Schepens Eye Research Institute
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gregory-Ksander, Meredith — Schepens Eye Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Gregory-Ksander, Meredith
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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.