Investigating how specific signaling in brain cells affects glaucoma-related blindness
Official title: Compartmentalized cAMP signaling in reactive astrocytes
Funded at Stanford University · NIH-11170639 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells react to stress in glaucoma, which can cause vision loss, to find new ways to protect the cells that help us see and potentially prevent blindness for people with 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 start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $544,574 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY033816-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11170639 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma or other optic neuropathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to glaucoma or those who do not have any optic nerve damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of reactive astrocytes in glaucoma, a leading cause of irreversible blindness. By examining how these brain cells respond to stress and injury, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that lead to the death of retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). Using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, researchers will explore how manipulating certain signaling pathways can protect RGCs from damage. The goal is to identify potential new therapeutic targets to prevent vision loss in glaucoma patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect vision in patients with glaucoma.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting astrocytes for neuroprotection in various neurological conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Stanford University
Stanford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goldberg, Jeffrey L — Stanford University
- Study coordinator: Goldberg, Jeffrey L
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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.