Investigating genetic factors that contribute to glaucoma risk and progression
Official title: Genetic Factors for Glaucoma in the OHTS; Risk, Progression and Mechanism
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-11030825 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes can influence the risk of developing primary open angle glaucoma, a common cause of vision loss, and aims to create a helpful tool for patients and doctors to understand that risk better and track the disease's progress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $400,478 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY035266-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030825 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for primary open angle glaucoma, particularly those with a family history of the disease or elevated intraocular pressure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of glaucoma or those who do not have a genetic predisposition to POAG may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the genetic factors that contribute to primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), a leading cause of vision loss. By analyzing data from previous genome-wide association studies and utilizing 20 years of clinical data from the Ocular Hypertension Treatment Study, the researchers aim to develop a risk calculator that combines both genetic and clinical factors. This tool will help patients and their healthcare providers assess the risk of developing glaucoma and its progression. Additionally, the study will explore how specific genetic variations affect the progression of the disease through advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized glaucoma management strategies that improve patient outcomes and preserve vision.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has successfully identified genetic risk factors for glaucoma, making this approach a continuation of established findings rather than a completely novel endeavor.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fingert, John H — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Fingert, John H
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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.