Investigating how iron affects eye damage during bacterial infections
The role of iron in retinal degeneration during bacterial infection
This study is looking at how iron affects serious eye infections that can cause vision loss, and it aims to find a way to use a special treatment to help stop bacteria from growing and protect your eyesight.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10884871 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of iron in the development of severe eye infections known as endophthalmitis, which can lead to permanent vision loss. The study aims to explore how bacteria compete for iron during infection and how this competition can lead to inflammation and damage to the retina. By using animal models, the researchers will test the effectiveness of an iron chelator, a substance that binds to iron, to inhibit bacterial growth and protect retinal structure. The goal is to find a treatment that can reduce both bacterial proliferation and inflammation in the eye.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of developing endophthalmitis, particularly those undergoing intraocular surgery.
Not a fit: Patients with eye infections not caused by bacterial agents or those with pre-existing irreversible vision loss may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent vision loss in patients suffering from severe eye infections.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that iron chelation can effectively inhibit bacterial growth and reduce inflammation in various infections, suggesting a promising approach in this context.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Foshe, Sierra — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Foshe, Sierra
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 below.