Exploring the connection between keratoconus and sex hormones
Official title: The Intimate Interplay Between Keratoconus, Sex Hormones, and the Anterior Pituitary
Funded at University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr · NIH-11012315 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how sex hormones might affect keratoconus, an eye condition that can worsen vision, to help find better ways to manage it and improve care for people dealing with this issue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Worth, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $393,545 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY035510-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012315 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with keratoconus, particularly those experiencing progression of the disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have keratoconus or those with other unrelated eye conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between keratoconus, a progressive eye condition, and sex hormones, particularly focusing on the role of gonadotropins and their receptors in the cornea. The study aims to understand how these hormones may influence the onset and progression of keratoconus, which can lead to severe vision impairment and the need for corneal transplants. By analyzing hormonal levels and their effects on corneal health, the research seeks to identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for better management of the condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options and preventive strategies for patients with keratoconus.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on sex hormones in keratoconus is relatively novel, previous research has shown success in exploring hormonal influences on other ocular conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
Fort Worth, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karamichos, Dimitrios — University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Karamichos, Dimitrios
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Engineered Cornea Chip to Study Keratoconus Curvature
A patient-friendly model of keratoconus will be created on a tiny, engineered eye chip to study how shape changes affect eye tissue and to identify potential new treatments.
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How hormones and the pituitary may affect keratoconus
This project looks at whether sex hormones and pituitary signals change the cornea in people with keratoconus to help explain why the disease starts and progresses.
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Cell and genetic causes of keratoconus
Researchers are analyzing cell changes and genes in people with keratoconus to find early warning signs and new treatment targets.
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Wide-view cornea imaging to detect keratoconus
This project is building a wide-field corneal OCT scan to spot tiny early changes in the cornea in people with or at risk for keratoconus.
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Improving early detection of keratoconus using advanced imaging technology
This study is testing a new imaging technology that helps doctors spot keratoconus earlier by taking detailed pictures of the eye's surface, which could lead to better treatment and help protect your vision.
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Preventing cell death in corneal cells to treat keratoconus without surgery
This study is looking for new ways to help people with keratoconus, a condition that affects vision by thinning the cornea, by finding treatments that can keep important cells in the eye alive and healthy.
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.