Identifying early signs of glaucoma to prevent vision loss
Official title: Biomarkers of Early Experimental Glaucoma - Resubmission - 1
Funded at Wills Eye Health System · NIH-11144129 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for early signs of glaucoma in the eyes of animals to help doctors catch the condition sooner and protect your vision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wills Eye Health System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2020 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1 |
| NIH project number | 7R01EY030770-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11144129 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for glaucoma, particularly those with a family history of the disease or elevated intraocular pressure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who already have advanced glaucoma or those without risk factors for the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on finding biomarkers that can help detect glaucoma in its early stages, which is crucial for preserving vision. Using an animal model that simulates chronic ocular hypertension, the study will monitor changes in the eye as it progresses from health to glaucoma. Advanced imaging technologies will be employed to observe structural and functional changes in the optic nerve and eye over time, particularly in response to changes in intraocular and intracranial pressure. The goal is to pinpoint specific features in the eye that indicate the onset of glaucoma, allowing for earlier intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier detection and treatment of glaucoma, significantly reducing the risk of vision loss for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying biomarkers for glaucoma, but this approach aims to provide novel insights into the disease's early detection.
Where this research is happening
-
Wills Eye Health System
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wollstein, Gadi — Wills Eye Health System
- Study coordinator: Wollstein, Gadi
Related research
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Using AI on eye scans and genes to predict glaucoma risk
This project uses artificial intelligence on eye scans, vision tests, and genetic information to find people most likely to develop or have worsening glaucoma.
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A new, easy-to-use AI screening approach will be tested in federally funded health centers to help identify people at risk for glaucoma, especially in communities with higher risk.
-
Understanding how glaucoma genes control eye cell function
A long-term research project will study how genetic factors affect eye cells in adults with glaucoma to uncover new ideas for protecting vision.
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.