Investigating how specific signaling in brain cells affects glaucoma-related cell death

Compartmentalized cAMP signaling in reactive astrocytes

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11210519

This study is looking at how certain brain cells called reactive astrocytes behave in glaucoma, with the hope of finding new ways to protect the cells in your eyes that are important for vision, so that we can develop better treatments for people with glaucoma.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11210519 on NIH RePORTER

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 compartmentalized cAMP signaling affects these brain cells, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could protect retinal ganglion cells from death. Using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, researchers will analyze the cellular responses to stress and how these responses can be manipulated to improve cell survival. The goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets that could lead to better treatments for glaucoma patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with glaucoma or other optic neuropathies who are experiencing vision loss.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to 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 therapies that prevent vision loss in glaucoma patients by protecting critical retinal cells.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting astrocytes for neuroprotection in various neurological conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.
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.