Investigating how opioids affect gene changes in glaucoma
Official title: Opioid-Induced Epigenetic Mechanisms in Glaucoma
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11031396 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how opioids might help protect eye cells from damage in people with glaucoma, and it’s using a rat model to find out if this could lead to new treatments for those facing vision loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $421,439 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034514-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031396 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma who are experiencing progressive vision loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with glaucoma who are not responsive to opioid treatments or have contraindications for opioid use may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of opioids in inducing epigenetic changes that may protect retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) in glaucoma, a condition that leads to vision loss. The study utilizes a chronic rat model of glaucoma to assess the long-term neuroprotective effects of sustained opioid receptor activation. By examining the molecular mechanisms involved, the research aims to identify potential neuroprotective strategies that could be translated into clinical treatments for glaucoma patients. The approach includes analyzing epigenetic regulators and their impact on RGC survival under stress conditions.
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 gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in using epigenetic modifications for neuroprotection in other neurodegenerative conditions, suggesting potential success for this novel approach in glaucoma.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Husain, Shahid — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Husain, Shahid
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Using AI on eye scans and genes to predict glaucoma risk
This project uses artificial intelligence on eye scans, vision tests, and genetic information to find people most likely to develop or have worsening glaucoma.
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A new, easy-to-use AI screening approach will be tested in federally funded health centers to help identify people at risk for glaucoma, especially in communities with higher risk.
-
Understanding how glaucoma genes control eye cell function
A long-term research project will study how genetic factors affect eye cells in adults with glaucoma to uncover new ideas for protecting vision.
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.