Improving eye pressure control in glaucoma using stem cell treatments
Official title: Enhancing Stem Cell Restoration of IOP Homeostasis by Senolytic Treatments
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11037853 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how stem cell treatments might help people with glaucoma by restoring the eye's ability to control pressure, which could improve their vision and overall quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2025 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $234,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21EY037045-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037853 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma, particularly those experiencing elevated intraocular pressure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of eye diseases unrelated to glaucoma may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on glaucoma, a serious eye condition that can lead to blindness due to high intraocular pressure (IOP). The study investigates how stem cell treatments can restore the natural regulation of IOP, which is often disrupted in glaucoma patients. By transplanting specific types of stem cells into the eye, the researchers aim to enhance the function of cells that help control IOP. This approach could potentially reverse the damage caused by aging and disease, improving vision and quality of life for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that effectively manage eye pressure in glaucoma patients, potentially preventing blindness.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using stem cell therapies for various eye conditions, suggesting that this approach may also be effective for glaucoma.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kelley, Mary Jane — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Kelley, Mary Jane
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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.