NIH-funded research R01 grant

Investigating how estrogen affects eye pressure regulation

Official title: Estrogen and its Receptor in Intraocular Pressure Regulation

Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11042823 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how estrogen affects eye pressure and could help find new treatments for people with primary open-angle glaucoma by exploring how it influences the cells that drain fluid from the eye.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAugusta University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Augusta, United States)
Project startMarch 1, 2023
Project endFebruary 29, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$383,430
NIH project number5R01EY032960-03
Project IDNIH-11042823 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are affected by primary open-angle glaucoma.

Less likely to help

Patients with other forms of glaucoma or those who are not affected by elevated intraocular pressure may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of estrogen and its receptors in regulating intraocular pressure (IOP), which is crucial for patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG). The study examines how estrogen influences the trabecular meshwork and Schlemm's canal cells, which are responsible for draining fluid from the eye. By identifying novel therapeutic targets related to estrogen pathways, the research aims to improve treatment options for lowering IOP in glaucoma patients. The approach includes bioinformatics analyses of genetic data to explore associations between estrogen-related genes and IOP.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that more effectively lower eye pressure in glaucoma patients, potentially preserving their vision.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in exploring estrogen's role in eye health, but this specific approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

  • Augusta University
    Augusta, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Liu, Yutao — Augusta University
  • Study coordinator: Liu, Yutao

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.