Identifying a new biomarker for neuropathic corneal pain

Discovery of the Biomarker Signature for Neuropathic Corneal Pain

NIH-funded research Tufts Medical Center · NIH-10689919

This study is looking at a special marker in the eye called microneuromas to help doctors tell if someone has neuropathic corneal pain instead of other eye issues like dry eye, so that patients can get the right treatment faster and feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTufts Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10689919 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on neuropathic corneal pain (NCP), a condition that causes significant discomfort and affects the quality of life for patients. The study aims to identify a specific biomarker, microneuromas, that can help differentiate NCP from other conditions like dry eye disease. Using advanced imaging techniques, researchers will analyze a large database of images to confirm the effectiveness of this biomarker. By improving diagnostic accuracy, the research seeks to facilitate timely and appropriate treatment for affected patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing symptoms of neuropathic corneal pain, particularly those who have been misdiagnosed with dry eye disease.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have neuropathic corneal pain or those with other unrelated ocular conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and better treatment options for patients suffering from neuropathic corneal pain.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data suggests that similar approaches using imaging techniques have shown promise in identifying biomarkers for neuropathic pain, indicating potential success for this research.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Conditions Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.