NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Investigating how iris biomechanics and sex differences affect primary angle-closure glaucoma

Official title: The role of iris biomechanics and sex differences in primary angle-closure glaucoma

Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-11160074 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how the structure and movement of the iris might lead to primary angle-closure glaucoma, a serious eye condition that can cause blindness, especially in women, and aims to find ways to spot those at risk and improve prevention methods.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of South Florida
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tampa, United States)
Project startSeptember 30, 2023
Project endJune 30, 2027
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$249,000
NIH project number4R00EY035360-03
Project IDNIH-11160074 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research include individuals, particularly women, who are at risk for primary angle-closure glaucoma due to anatomical or biomechanical factors.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not have anatomical predispositions or a family history of glaucoma may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG), a leading cause of irreversible blindness, particularly among women. The study aims to explore the biomechanics of the iris and how these factors, along with anatomical differences, contribute to the development of PACG. By using non-invasive methods to evaluate iris stiffness and its response to light, researchers hope to uncover the underlying mechanisms that lead to this condition. The findings could help identify at-risk individuals and improve prevention strategies.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better screening and treatment options for patients at risk of developing PACG.

How similar studies have gone: While the biomechanics of the iris have been studied, this specific approach to understanding PACG through iris stiffness and sex differences is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

  • University of South Florida
    Tampa, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Naghizadeh Safa, Babak — University of South Florida
  • Study coordinator: Naghizadeh Safa, Babak

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  • Using AI on eye scans and genes to predict glaucoma risk

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  • AI-based glaucoma screening in community health centers

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  • Understanding how glaucoma genes control eye cell function

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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.