Investigating how chemical exposure affects eye tissue health
Official title: Mitochondria and Mustard Damage at the Ocular Surface
Funded at Tufts Medical Center · NIH-10917324 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain harmful chemicals can hurt the eyes and is testing ways to protect them by using special small molecules that help the eye cells stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Tufts Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $531,360 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY035220-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10917324 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced ocular surface damage from chemical agents or similar oxidative stress conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with ocular surface damage from non-chemical causes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the damage caused to the ocular surface by chemical warfare agents like sulfur mustard and nitrogen mustard. It explores how these agents lead to oxidative stress and tissue injury, particularly through the role of mitochondria and reactive oxygen species. The research employs cell culture techniques to study the protective effects of small molecules that target mitochondrial function and calcium influx. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to develop better medical countermeasures for eye injuries caused by chemical exposure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients suffering from eye injuries due to chemical exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using small molecules to protect against oxidative stress in other contexts, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
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Tufts Medical Center
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fini, M Elizabeth — Tufts Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Fini, M Elizabeth
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.