Finding new treatments to prevent and manage glaucoma
Official title: Discovery of novel disease modifying therapy for the prevention and treatment of glaucoma
Funded at University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr · NIH-10947709 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for new ways to help people with glaucoma by finding treatments that not only lower eye pressure but also protect against the damage the disease causes, so you can keep your vision for longer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 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, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $185,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY036503-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10947709 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma, particularly those who are experiencing progressive vision loss despite current treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been diagnosed with glaucoma or those with advanced glaucoma who have already lost significant vision may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to discover innovative therapies that can modify the disease process of glaucoma, which is a leading cause of blindness. Current treatments primarily focus on lowering eye pressure but do not address the underlying damage caused by the disease. The researchers are investigating the molecular mechanisms that lead to this damage and are using advanced computational methods to identify new agents that can disrupt harmful protein interactions involved in glaucoma. By targeting these pathways, the goal is to develop treatments that not only slow down vision loss but also prevent it.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve the quality of life for glaucoma patients by preserving their vision.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been advancements in glaucoma treatment, this approach targeting specific molecular pathways is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in previous studies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
Fort Worth, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clark, Abbot Frederick — University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Clark, Abbot Frederick
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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IOP and CSF Pressure in Glaucoma Risk
This grant studies how eye pressure and cerebrospinal fluid pressure together influence glaucoma risk and vision loss.
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Comparing tube positions in glaucoma implants to protect corneal cells
This trial compares two tube placements for glaucoma drainage implants to see which better protects corneal cells and controls eye pressure in people with uncontrolled glaucoma.
-
Automated topographic test for glaucoma detection and progression
A new automated method uses topographic structure-function mapping to help diagnose glaucoma earlier and track its progression in patients.
-
Using AI on eye scans and genes to predict glaucoma risk
This project uses artificial intelligence on eye scans, vision tests, and genetic information to find people most likely to develop or have worsening glaucoma.
-
AI-based glaucoma screening in community health centers
A new, easy-to-use AI screening approach will be tested in federally funded health centers to help identify people at risk for glaucoma, especially in communities with higher risk.
-
Understanding how glaucoma genes control eye cell function
A long-term research project will study how genetic factors affect eye cells in adults with glaucoma to uncover new ideas for protecting vision.
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.