Investigating how optineurin dysfunction leads to nerve damage in normal tension glaucoma
Optineurin dysfunction induces neurodegeneration in normal tension glaucoma by a novel molecular mechanism
This study is looking into how changes in a specific gene might cause normal tension glaucoma, which damages the optic nerve without high eye pressure, and it could help find new ways to treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Stanford University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Stanford, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10999384 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the molecular mechanisms behind normal tension glaucoma (NTG), a condition that causes optic nerve damage without elevated eye pressure. Researchers have developed a mouse model that mimics NTG by altering the optineurin gene, which is linked to both NTG and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). By studying this model, the team aims to identify how optineurin mutations contribute to the degeneration of retinal ganglion cells and optic nerves. This could lead to new insights into potential treatments for NTG that do not rely on lowering eye pressure.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with normal tension glaucoma who may not respond to traditional treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with glaucoma characterized by elevated intraocular pressure are unlikely to benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for patients with normal tension glaucoma, improving their vision and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting molecular mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases can lead to significant advancements, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Stanford, United States
- Stanford University — Stanford, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hu, Yang — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Hu, Yang
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.