Investigating how myeloid cells contribute to nerve damage in glaucoma

Myeloid cells as mediators of glaucomatous axon self-destruction

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-11120200

This study is looking at how certain immune cells affect the damage to nerve cells in the eye caused by glaucoma, and it’s testing whether increasing a substance called NAD+ can help protect these nerve cells and improve vision for people with glaucoma.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11120200 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the role of myeloid cells in the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in glaucoma. It aims to understand how increasing levels of Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide (NAD+) can protect these cells from damage caused by elevated intraocular pressure. By using a novel model of axon injury, the study will assess whether interventions that boost NAD+ can reduce inflammation and preserve nerve function. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for glaucoma-related vision loss.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk of glaucoma or those experiencing early signs of the disease.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced glaucoma or those who have already lost significant vision may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that protect vision in glaucoma patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with NAD+ boosting interventions in protecting nerve cells, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Davis, 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 axon injuryaxonal injury
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.