How corneal nerve ion channels help stop bacteria from sticking to the eye
Transient Receptor Potential Ion Channels and Corneal Defense Against Bacterial Adhesion
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY · NIH-11261059
Researchers are testing whether specific corneal nerve channels (TRPV1 and TRPA1) keep Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus from sticking to the cornea and causing sight‑threatening infections.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BERKELEY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11261059 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project looks at corneal sensory nerve channels called TRPV1 and TRPA1 to find out how they prevent bacteria from adhering to the eye surface. The team will use laboratory models of the cornea, experiments with the two main bacterial causes of keratitis, and nerve‑activity tests to determine which channels counter which pathogens. Prior results suggest TRPV1 limits S. aureus adhesion while TRPA1 limits P. aeruginosa, with TRPA1 requiring nerve firing. The researchers aim to define these mechanisms so they can be used to prevent infections and reduce scarring and vision loss.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People most likely to be involved or to benefit include those at higher risk for bacterial keratitis, such as contact lens wearers, people with prior corneal infections, or those with frequent eye surface injury.
Not a fit: Patients with long‑standing corneal scarring and irreversible vision loss from past infections are unlikely to gain direct benefit from prevention‑focused findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could lead to new ways to prevent bacterial keratitis, reduce reliance on antibiotics, and lower the risk of scarring and vision loss.
How similar studies have performed: Previous laboratory work, including from this team, has shown corneal nerves and TRP channels affect bacterial adhesion, but translating those findings into patient treatments is still new.
Where this research is happening
BERKELEY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY — BERKELEY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FLEISZIG, SUZANNE MJ — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA BERKELEY
- Study coordinator: FLEISZIG, SUZANNE MJ
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.
Conditions: Bacterial Infections