Investigating how mitochondrial dysfunction contributes to vision loss in glaucoma

The role of impaired mitophagy and mitochondrial dysfunction in glaucomatous neurodegeneration

NIH-funded research University of Missouri-Columbia · NIH-11082659

This study is looking at how high eye pressure affects the health of cells in the eye for people with glaucoma, using special mouse models to find new ways to protect vision and possibly improve treatments for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Missouri-Columbia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11082659 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind primary open angle glaucoma (POAG), a condition that leads to irreversible vision loss due to the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells. The study utilizes innovative mouse models that mimic human glaucoma to explore how elevated intraocular pressure affects mitochondrial health and contributes to neurodegeneration. By examining the role of impaired mitophagy, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic strategies that could enhance mitochondrial function and prevent cell loss. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for glaucoma.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with primary open angle glaucoma who are experiencing vision loss.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of glaucoma or those without any retinal degeneration may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that prevent vision loss in patients with glaucoma.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

Columbia, 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.
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.