Investigating how optic nerve cells respond to pressure changes in glaucoma
Optic nerve head astrocyte sensitivity to glaucomatous insult
This study is looking at how high pressure in the eye can harm the optic nerve and how certain supportive cells respond to that pressure, which could help us understand why some people are more likely to develop glaucoma than others.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Upstate Medical University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11024619 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how elevated pressure in the eye affects the optic nerve, particularly the role of astrocytes, which are supportive cells in the optic nerve head. The researchers have developed a 3D hydrogel system to simulate and measure how these cells react to harmful pressure changes. By using advanced bioengineering techniques and animal models, they aim to uncover the mechanisms that lead to optic nerve damage in glaucoma. This could help identify why some individuals are more susceptible to glaucoma than others.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for glaucoma or those already diagnosed with the condition.
Not a fit: Patients with other types of optic nerve damage unrelated to glaucoma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating glaucoma-related optic nerve damage.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding optic nerve responses to pressure, but this specific approach using 3D bioengineering is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Syracuse, United States
- Upstate Medical University — Syracuse, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ganapathy, Preethi — Upstate Medical University
- Study coordinator: Ganapathy, Preethi
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.