Evaluating the function and metabolism of retinal cells in glaucoma using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: In Vivo Function and Metabolism Evaluation of Glaucomatous RGCs by Two-Photon Scanning Laser Ophthalmology
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11055426 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the cells in your eye that help you see are affected by glaucoma, using a special imaging technique to watch them in action, so we can learn more about how to protect them and improve treatments for people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $746,153 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034353-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055426 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for glaucoma or those diagnosed with the condition, particularly those experiencing elevated intraocular pressure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of vision impairment unrelated to glaucoma may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the function and metabolism of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness. Using a novel two-photon scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (2P-SLO) platform, researchers will perform non-invasive imaging to observe RGCs in real time, allowing for a better understanding of their physiology under different conditions. The study employs advanced imaging techniques and analysis protocols to explore the effects of intraocular pressure (IOP) on RGC health and the potential for neuroprotective treatments. By utilizing animal models that mimic both chronic and acute glaucoma, the research aims to uncover critical insights into RGC dysfunction and death.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for glaucoma, potentially preserving vision for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar imaging techniques has shown promise in understanding retinal cell function, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hu, Yang — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Hu, Yang
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Multimodal AI to predict CAR-T patient response and guide safer, smarter cell design
A Stanford team is building AI tools that use patient and CAR-T cell data to predict how well a CAR-T therapy will work and what design changes might boost effectiveness and safety for people with cancer.
-
Community-driven model to reduce overdose deaths through smarter resource use
A Stanford-led project uses a data-driven model to help counties pick the best ways to prevent opioid and stimulant overdoses and save lives.
-
Center for Dissemination and Implementation at Stanford: Research Core
A Stanford-based program is advancing how evidence-based addiction treatments are implemented across settings to help people with substance use disorders receive better care.
-
Center for Dissemination and Implementation At Stanford (C-DIAS)
A center-based program at Stanford aims to speed people who need addiction treatments to get evidence-based care.
-
Mitochondrial structure and neuron health in Alzheimer's and ALS
This grant studies how mitochondrial cristae structure in neurons is controlled and how its disruption may contribute to diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS.
-
Pediatric EMS seizures: simpler age-based midazolam dosing
A nationwide trial at EMS agencies tests whether using fixed, age-based dosing of midazolam for seizures in children improves treatment speed and safety.
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.