Investigating how HSV-1 affects eye pressure and glaucoma damage

HSV-1 reactivation and glaucomatous trabecular meshwork damage

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10783757

This study is looking at how the herpes virus might affect eye pressure and contribute to glaucoma, with the hope of finding new treatments that could help people with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-10783757 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the relationship between the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and glaucoma, particularly how HSV-1 reactivation may contribute to damage in the trabecular meshwork, which is crucial for regulating eye pressure. The study focuses on the role of toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and fibronectin extra domain A (FN-EDA) in this process. By examining how HSV-1 interacts with these pathways, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that lead to increased intraocular pressure and potential blindness. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for glaucoma linked to viral infections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of HSV-1 infection and those at risk for glaucoma or experiencing elevated intraocular pressure.

Not a fit: Patients without a history of HSV-1 infection or those who do not have glaucoma or elevated intraocular pressure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing glaucoma and preventing vision loss associated with HSV-1.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a connection between HSV-1 and ocular inflammation, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights into glaucoma treatment.

Where this research is happening

Madison, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions DisorderDisease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.