Exploring how cGMP signaling affects nerve cell damage in glaucoma
Official title: Investigating the role of cGMP signaling in glaucomatous neurodegeneration
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11049573 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how a specific signaling process in the eye affects the loss of important nerve cells in glaucoma, with the hope of finding new ways to protect or restore vision for people dealing with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $526,841 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EY036002-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11049573 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma, particularly those experiencing vision loss despite current treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with glaucoma who are not experiencing any vision loss or those with other unrelated eye conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cGMP signaling in the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind RGC degeneration and identify new therapeutic targets that could protect or restore vision. By examining the interactions between RGCs, astrocytes, and blood vessels, the research seeks to uncover how impaired cGMP signaling contributes to the disease. Patients may benefit from potential new treatments that directly address the underlying causes of vision loss in glaucoma.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that protect vision by targeting the degeneration of nerve cells in glaucoma.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that targeting signaling pathways like cGMP may offer new avenues for treating glaucoma, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wareham, Lauren Katie — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Wareham, Lauren Katie
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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.