Investigating a new biomarker for keratoconus
Official title: Utility of PIP as a Novel Keratoconus Biomarker
Funded at University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr · NIH-10653013 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called PIP to see if it can help doctors spot keratoconus earlier and improve treatment options for people with this eye condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Worth, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2019 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $370,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY030028-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10653013 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents and young adults aged 12 to 20 who are experiencing symptoms of keratoconus.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with keratoconus who are older than 20 years or those with other unrelated corneal disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on keratoconus, a common corneal disorder that can severely impact vision. The study aims to identify prolactin-induced protein (PIP) as a potential biomarker for early diagnosis and treatment of keratoconus. Researchers will analyze PIP levels in various biological fluids, including tears, saliva, and blood, to determine its specificity to keratoconus compared to other diseases. By understanding the role of PIP in keratoconus progression, the research hopes to improve diagnostic methods and treatment options for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and better treatment strategies for patients with keratoconus.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying biomarkers for other conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach for keratoconus.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
Fort Worth, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karamichos, Dimitrios — University of North Texas Hlth Sci Ctr
- Study coordinator: Karamichos, Dimitrios
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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Improving early detection of keratoconus using advanced imaging technology
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.
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.