Factors that shape microbes on the eyelid margin
Determinants of the periocular microbiome
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11386193
Researchers will compare eyelid microbes from adult twins to learn what makes people's periocular microbiome different.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11386193 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would answer health questions, have a short eye exam, and a gentle swab taken from the edge of your eyelid to collect microbes. The team will extract DNA and RNA and use metagenomic sequencing to identify bacteria, viruses, and bacteriophages on the lid margin. Some participants will have both eyes sampled and some will be sampled again over time to check stability. Researchers will link the microbial findings to existing twin genetic data to see which patterns are influenced by genes and how they relate to eyelid problems like blepharitis or chalazion.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal participants are adults (21+) who are enrolled in the TwinsUK registry and can complete questionnaires, an eye exam, and provide a lid-margin swab.
Not a fit: People under 21, those not part of the TwinsUK cohort, or anyone expecting immediate treatment for an eyelid condition are unlikely to receive direct clinical benefit from this observational project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal microbial patterns or genetic links that help diagnose, prevent, or guide new treatments for eyelid and ocular surface conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous small studies have shown microbes live on the eyelid margin, but this larger, twin-based metagenomic approach is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VAN GELDER, RUSSELL N. — UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON
- Study coordinator: VAN GELDER, RUSSELL N.
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 below.