Investigating how age-related changes in the eye's gel affect glaucoma treatment.
Official title: The impact of age-related vitreous degeneration and vitreous replacement on scleral biomechanics: a novel mechanism and treatment target for glaucoma
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10836520 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the jelly-like substance in the eye as we age might affect the outer layer of the eye, which is important for understanding glaucoma, and it hopes to find new ways to help manage this condition better for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $189,800 |
| NIH project number | 5R21EY035035-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10836520 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for or currently diagnosed with glaucoma.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with glaucoma who are not experiencing age-related changes in their vitreous may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between age-related degeneration of the vitreous gel in the eye and its impact on the biomechanics of the sclera, which is crucial for understanding glaucoma. By examining human donor eyes, the study aims to assess how changes in the vitreous affect the sclera's response to fluctuations in intraocular pressure. The goal is to identify new mechanisms that could be targeted for glaucoma treatment, potentially leading to improved management strategies for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that better manage glaucoma and reduce the risk of blindness.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on vitreous degeneration in relation to scleral biomechanics is novel, previous studies have successfully explored other biomechanical factors in glaucoma treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bianco, Gianfranco — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Bianco, Gianfranco
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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.