Investigating how temporary disruptions in corneal cells affect eye health.
Official title: Temporary plasma membrane disruptions in corneal epithelium and keratocytes.
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-10904664 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how small, temporary changes in the outer layer of your eye can happen when you rub your eyes or wear contact lenses, and it aims to find out how these changes affect eye health, especially for people with diabetes, to help improve treatments for corneal problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $385,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R01EY034851-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10904664 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing corneal disorders or those who frequently wear contact lenses.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable corneal health and no history of mechanical stress-related eye issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how minor, temporary disruptions in the plasma membrane of corneal cells occur due to mechanical stress, such as eye rubbing or wearing contact lenses. The study aims to understand the signaling pathways triggered by these disruptions, particularly focusing on calcium waves that may influence corneal health and maintenance. By identifying specific calcium channels involved in these processes, the research seeks to uncover new insights into corneal diseases, especially in conditions like diabetes. Patients may benefit from improved understanding and potential treatments for corneal disorders resulting from these mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for corneal diseases and improved eye health.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of investigating transient plasma membrane disruptions is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding cellular responses to mechanical stress.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Watsky, Mitchell a — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Watsky, Mitchell a
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.