Investigating a new model for treating radiation optic neuropathy using tree shrews
Official title: Characterization and treatment of a novel model of radiation optic neuropathy using the tree shrew
Funded at Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-11014441 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how to better understand and treat vision loss caused by radiation therapy in patients with uveal melanoma, using tree shrews to find new ways to help improve eye health and outcomes for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $67,465 |
| NIH project number | 5R21CA286349-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014441 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with uveal melanoma who are undergoing radiation therapy and are at risk for developing radiation optic neuropathy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have uveal melanoma or are not receiving radiation therapy for their condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding and treating radiation optic neuropathy (RON), a condition that can cause severe vision loss in patients undergoing radiation therapy for uveal melanoma. By using tree shrews as a model, the study aims to explore the relationship between intraocular pressure and optic nerve injury, which may lead to new treatment strategies. The researchers will analyze various risk factors associated with RON to identify potential interventions that could improve patient outcomes. This approach is based on previous clinical observations and aims to provide insights that could translate into better care for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that prevent or reduce vision loss in patients receiving radiation therapy for uveal melanoma.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using animal models to study optic nerve injury is established, the specific application of the tree shrew model for radiation optic neuropathy is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Mayo Clinic Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Roddy, Gavin W — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Roddy, Gavin W
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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.