Improving survival of retinal cells and optic nerve healing using immune cells
Official title: Enhancement of RGC survival and Optic Nerve Regeneration by Cytokine Polarized Myeloid Cells
Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-11045192 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells can help protect and heal the optic nerve, which is important for vision, to find new ways to help people with optic nerve injuries from trauma or glaucoma.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ohio State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | March 1, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $665,243 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EY036099-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045192 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 21 years old who have experienced optic nerve injuries or conditions like glaucoma that affect their vision.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with optic nerve injuries that are not amenable to regenerative therapies or those with conditions unrelated to optic nerve damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the survival of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and promoting the regeneration of the optic nerve, which are crucial for vision. It explores the use of immune cells, specifically cytokine-polarized myeloid cells, to harness the body's natural healing processes. By investigating how these immune cells can support the repair of damaged optic nerves, the research aims to develop new therapeutic strategies for individuals suffering from optic nerve injuries due to trauma or glaucoma.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that restore vision in patients with optic nerve injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using immune-driven healing strategies in animal models, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Ohio State University
Columbus, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Segal, Benjamin M — Ohio State University
- Study coordinator: Segal, Benjamin M
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.