How menopause affects eye pressure and glaucoma risk

Impact of Menopause on the Aqueous Outflow Pathway

NIH-funded research Emory University · NIH-10916245

This study is looking at how menopause might affect the risk of developing glaucoma, a serious eye condition that can lead to blindness, by exploring how changes in hormone levels during this time could impact eye pressure and fluid drainage.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionEmory University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Atlanta, United States)
Project IDNIH-10916245 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between menopause and the risk of developing glaucoma, a leading cause of blindness. It focuses on how changes in estrogen levels during menopause may influence intraocular pressure (IOP) and aqueous outflow resistance in the eye. By examining the effects of menopause on the trabecular meshwork, which regulates fluid drainage from the eye, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to increased glaucoma risk in women. The research employs various methodologies, including assessments of protein expression and biomechanical properties of eye tissues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postmenopausal women or those experiencing early menopause who are at risk for glaucoma.

Not a fit: Patients who are premenopausal or have no risk factors for glaucoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and management of glaucoma risk in postmenopausal women.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between hormonal changes and glaucoma risk, suggesting that this investigation builds on established findings rather than exploring entirely novel territory.

Where this research is happening

Atlanta, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.