Identifying tear protein markers related to pain after eye surgery

Tear protein biomarkers of refractive surgery pain

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11045022

This study is looking at the proteins in your tears to see if they can help predict which people might experience ongoing eye pain after surgeries like PRK and LASIK, with the hope of finding better ways to help those who are affected.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorOREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PORTLAND, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11045022 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of tear proteins in the development of persistent ocular pain following refractive surgeries like PRK and LASIK. By analyzing tear fluid before and after these procedures, the study aims to identify biomarkers that can predict which patients are at risk for chronic pain. The approach involves advanced proteomic analysis to validate these biomarkers, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies for affected individuals. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life by addressing this significant post-surgical complication.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals undergoing PRK or LASIK surgery who may be at risk for developing persistent ocular pain.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing refractive surgery or those who do not experience ocular pain post-surgery may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment options for patients experiencing chronic pain after eye surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying biomarkers for pain in other contexts, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

PORTLAND, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.