Investigating blood components to improve corneal health

Serum components to support corneal health

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11058280

This study is looking at how using your own blood to make special eye drops can help heal different eye problems, especially for people with dry eyes or injuries, by figuring out the best ingredients to include for better results.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-11058280 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how blood-based therapies, specifically autologous serum tears, can be used to treat various eye conditions affecting the cornea. The study aims to identify the specific serum components, such as growth factors and vitamins, that promote corneal repair and health. By analyzing these components, the researchers hope to establish a standardized preparation method for serum tears, making them more accessible and effective for patients with ocular surface disorders. The ultimate goal is to enhance the clinical application of serum tears in treating conditions like dry eye disease and chemical injuries.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with ocular surface disorders such as dry eye disease, chemical injuries, or other corneal health issues.

Not a fit: Patients with non-ocular conditions or those not experiencing corneal health issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from various ocular surface disorders, enhancing their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that blood-based therapies can improve symptoms in ocular surface disorders, indicating a promising avenue for further exploration.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.