Glaucoma risk prediction with advanced genetics and machine learning
Official title: Enhancing Glaucoma Risk Prediction through Advanced Genomics and Machine Learning
Funded at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · NIH-11420833 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Aiming to better predict who will develop glaucoma and how it might progress, using genetic information and smart computer methods so doctors can tailor care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $697,598 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY036518-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11420833 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals at risk for glaucoma or with early signs who could participate in data analyses or related imaging/genetic studies.
✕Less likely to help
If you do not have glaucoma or related risk factors, you may not benefit from this study.
What this research studies
This project uses big genetic data and advanced computer algorithms to improve how we predict glaucoma risk from a patient’s records. Researchers will pull insights from thousands of patient records and large biobanks to create more accurate risk scores. The work combines natural language processing of electronic health records, genome-wide association data, and machine learning-derived imaging features to refine predictions. The ultimate goal is to help clinicians identify high-risk individuals earlier and personalize monitoring and treatment plans.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could receive personalized risk assessments that guide earlier and more precise glaucoma management.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work shows promise for polygenic risk scores in eye diseases, but improved methods are still needed, making this approach potentially impactful and novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zebardast, Nazlee — Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
- Study coordinator: Zebardast, Nazlee
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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.