Investigating how exosomes affect fluid flow in the eye related to glaucoma
Official title: Exosomes and Conventional Outflow Homeostasis
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11014032 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at tiny particles called exosomes that come from eye cells to see how they affect fluid flow in the eye and contribute to high eye pressure, which is important for understanding and treating glaucoma, so it could help find new ways to manage this condition for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $249,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R00EY031737-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014032 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma or those experiencing elevated intraocular pressure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without glaucoma or normal intraocular pressure are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of exosomes, which are tiny vesicles released by cells, in regulating the extracellular matrix (ECM) in the eye's drainage system. By studying human trabecular meshwork (TM) cells and tissues, the research aims to explore how exosomes influence fluid flow and contribute to elevated intraocular pressure, a key factor in glaucoma. The project will also examine how changes in intraocular pressure affect the release of these exosomes and their potential to improve glaucoma symptoms. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for managing glaucoma and ocular hypertension.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that better manage glaucoma and reduce intraocular pressure.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of exosomes in other conditions has been studied, this specific approach to glaucoma is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcdonnell, Fiona — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Mcdonnell, Fiona
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.