Improving early detection of keratoconus using advanced imaging technology
Official title: Wide-field corneal microlayer tomography for keratoconus
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11004118 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new imaging technology that helps doctors spot keratoconus earlier by taking detailed pictures of the eye's surface, which could lead to better treatment and help protect your vision.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2022 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $403,248 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY033429-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004118 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with keratoconus or those at risk of developing the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced keratoconus or those who have already undergone corneal transplantation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a new imaging technology called Widefield Corneal Microlayer Tomography (wCMT) to detect keratoconus at earlier stages. By using high-resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT), the study aims to visualize and quantify changes in the corneal microstructure, specifically in the epithelium and Bowman’s layer. This could lead to better diagnosis and management of keratoconus, potentially preventing vision loss through earlier intervention. The project will involve testing this technology on individuals diagnosed with keratoconus to validate its effectiveness.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of keratoconus, significantly reducing the risk of vision loss for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques for early detection of corneal diseases, suggesting that this approach may also be effective for keratoconus.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ruggeri, Marco — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Ruggeri, Marco
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Engineered Cornea Chip to Study Keratoconus Curvature
A patient-friendly model of keratoconus will be created on a tiny, engineered eye chip to study how shape changes affect eye tissue and to identify potential new treatments.
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How hormones and the pituitary may affect keratoconus
This project looks at whether sex hormones and pituitary signals change the cornea in people with keratoconus to help explain why the disease starts and progresses.
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Cell and genetic causes of keratoconus
Researchers are analyzing cell changes and genes in people with keratoconus to find early warning signs and new treatment targets.
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Wide-view cornea imaging to detect keratoconus
This project is building a wide-field corneal OCT scan to spot tiny early changes in the cornea in people with or at risk for keratoconus.
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Exploring the connection between keratoconus and sex hormones
This study is looking at how sex hormones might affect keratoconus, an eye condition that can worsen vision, to help find better ways to manage it and improve care for people dealing with this issue.
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Preventing cell death in corneal cells to treat keratoconus without surgery
This study is looking for new ways to help people with keratoconus, a condition that affects vision by thinning the cornea, by finding treatments that can keep important cells in the eye alive and healthy.
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.