Improving corneal transplant success by enhancing healing and reducing inflammation
Official title: Targeting the multicellular process of corneal regeneration and vascularization to enhance outcome of cornea transplantation
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11093410 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to help people who need corneal transplants, especially those with tough conditions like inflammation, by using a special protein to improve healing and reduce the chances of rejection, so patients can have better results after their surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $683,439 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY036243-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11093410 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals undergoing corneal transplantation, especially those with high-risk factors like inflammation or vascularization.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not require corneal transplantation or have stable corneal conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the success rates of corneal transplants, particularly in patients with high-risk conditions such as inflammation and vascularization. The approach involves boosting the regenerative capacity of the cornea and limbus by targeting specific proteins that play a role in tissue repair and inflammation. By studying the effects of MG53, a protein involved in corneal health, the research aims to mitigate rejection rates and enhance healing processes in transplant recipients. Patients may benefit from improved outcomes and reduced complications following corneal surgery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to higher success rates for corneal transplants and better long-term vision for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing tissue repair and reducing inflammation using similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ma, Jianjie — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Ma, Jianjie
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.