Investigating how Hedgehog signaling affects meibomian gland health and treatment for dry eye disease
Official title: Functional and therapeutic roles of the Hedgehog signaling in meibomian glands development, renewal and dysfunction
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10859607 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how a specific signaling process affects the tiny glands in your eyelids that keep your eyes healthy, especially as we age or face certain eye conditions, with the goal of finding better treatments for dry eye.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $441,822 |
| NIH project number | 1R01EY036135-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10859607 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults experiencing symptoms of dry eye disease, particularly those with meibomian gland dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with dry eye disease not related to meibomian gland dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of Hedgehog signaling in the development and maintenance of meibomian glands, which are crucial for eye health. It aims to uncover how aging and disease impact these glands, leading to conditions like dry eye disease. By exploring the mechanisms behind meibomian gland dysfunction, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could improve treatment options for patients suffering from dry eye. The approach includes studying the cellular processes involved in gland renewal and function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for dry eye disease, improving the quality of life for many patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding signaling pathways related to gland function, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Iomini, Carlo — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Iomini, Carlo
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.