Investigating how lens injuries can help protect the nervous system and promote nerve regeneration
Official title: Lens injury-mediated mechanisms of nervous system protection and axon regeneration
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11123081 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how injuries to the eye's lens might help protect and heal nerve cells in the brain, especially those connected to vision, to find new ways to help people recover better from optic nerve damage.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | May 24, 2024 |
| Project end | May 23, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $42,099 |
| NIH project number | 5F31EY036280-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11123081 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals under 21 years old who have experienced acute central nervous system injuries, particularly those affecting vision.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with chronic or non-acute central nervous system conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the mechanisms by which lens injuries can enhance the protection and regeneration of nerve cells in the central nervous system, particularly focusing on retinal ganglion cells. Using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to identify cellular responses that occur after a lens injury, which may lead to improved recovery following optic nerve damage. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for enhancing nerve regeneration in patients with similar injuries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve nerve regeneration and recovery from central nervous system injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing nerve regeneration through similar injury mechanisms, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Finneran, Matthew — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Finneran, Matthew
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.