NIH-funded research R01 grant

Investigating how certain immune cells protect nerve cells after eye injuries

Official title: Arginase positive monocyte mediated RGC neuroprotection after traumatic optic neuropathy

Funded at Ohio State University · NIH-10882564 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain immune cells can help heal and protect the nerve cells in the eye after injuries, with the hope of finding new ways to improve recovery for people with optic nerve damage.

More Neuropathy research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project startJuly 1, 2024
Project endJune 29, 2029
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$458,517
NIH project number1R01EY035307-01A1
Project IDNIH-10882564 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals who have experienced traumatic optic neuropathy or similar optic nerve injuries.

Less likely to help

Patients with chronic optic nerve damage or those who do not have a recent injury may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how specific immune cells, particularly arginase positive monocytes and alternatively activated neutrophils, can help protect and repair retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) after traumatic injuries. By using animal models, the study aims to explore the mechanisms through which these immune cells contribute to neuroprotection and promote axon regeneration in the optic nerve. The goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets that could enhance recovery from optic nerve injuries and related conditions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve recovery and reduce disability for patients with optic nerve injuries.

How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using immune modulation for neuroprotection, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

  • Ohio State University
    Columbus, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Sas, Andrew Robert — Ohio State University
  • Study coordinator: Sas, Andrew Robert

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.