High-resolution imaging of the cornea
Official title: Wide-field three-dimensional high-resolution imaging of the cornea
Funded at University of Colorado · NIH-11039759 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to take clear pictures of the tiny details in the cornea, which is the front part of your eye, to help doctors better diagnose and treat eye problems that could cause vision loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $237,996 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY037083-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11039759 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 21 years old who are experiencing corneal disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no corneal issues or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a new imaging technique that allows for detailed visualization of the cornea's fine structures in living patients. By utilizing advanced methods like speckle illumination holographic imaging, the project seeks to overcome current limitations in corneal imaging, such as the need for physical contact and small field-of-view. The goal is to create a user-friendly imaging system that can be easily implemented in clinical settings, providing better diagnostic capabilities for corneal disorders. This could significantly enhance the ability to assess and manage conditions that lead to blindness.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment of corneal disorders, potentially reducing the risk of blindness.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been advancements in imaging technologies like optical coherence tomography, this specific approach is novel and aims to address existing challenges in corneal imaging.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado
Boulder, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Piestun, Rafael — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Piestun, Rafael
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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.